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F 159 
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ffiNTENMAL 




BOROUGH 

of 

MEDIA 

PENNA. 



MAY19.1900 






03 




EMI-^ENTENNIAL: 



OK THE 

BOROUGH OF MEDIA 



MAY, 19th, 1900 

Program of the Day : 

Ringing of church and fire bells and blowing of whistles, 9 a. m. 

Literary Exercises in the Court House Square, 9.30 a. m. 

Introductory Address, by Burgess Henry C. Suowden, Presiding Officer 

Prayer, Rev. Wm. D. Thatcher 

Song, "Our Dear County Town," composed by Dr. George W. Smith, 
and rendered by school children, band and audience 

Address op Welcome, by Hon. Edward A. Price, Esq. 

Music by Band 

Address, "Our Borough's Past," by A. Lewis Smith, Esq. 

Music by Band 

Address "Our Borough's Future," by Col. A. K. McClure 

Semi-Centennial Poem, by Benjamin C. Potts, Esq. 

Semi-Centennial Hymn, composed by Horace P. Green, Esq., and ren- 
dered by school children, band and audience 

Benediction 

Military and Civic Parade, 2.30, P. M. 



Borough Officers. 

— 1900 — 

Burgess, Henry C. Snowden, Sr. 

Members f Edward H. Hall, Winfield S. Worrall, Frank I. Taylor, Wm. F. 
of \ Lewis, Joseph C. Seal, William H. Hardcastle and Samuel A. 
Council, (- Field. 



School 
Directors, 



President, Horace P. Green ; Secretary, George E. Whitaker ; 
Treasurer, Edgar T. Miller ; Stephen H. Appleton, Henry C. 
Bishop. 



Auditors, John T. Reynolds, D. O. Cummins and Edward H. Rigby 

Town Clerk, William H. Tricker 

Treasurer, CD. M. Broomhall 

Tax Collectors, Albin P. Ottey, James R. McDowell 

Borough Regulator, C. M. Broomall 

Borough Solicitor, George E. Darlington 

Water Superintendent, George W. Carey 

Constable and Chief of Police, James McKniff 

Police Officers, Jesse W. Hoopes, Frank M. Smith and Alonzo Hoopes 

Justices of the Peace, Forrest F. Williamson and John Watson 



BURGESSES OF MEDIA. 

1850 William T. Pierce 1852 

1852 Charles R. Manley 1854 

1854 Jesse Bishop 1855 

1855 John C. Price 1857 
1857 D. Reese Hawkins i860 
i860 John M. Hall 1862 
1862 D. Reese Hawkins 1864 

1864 Peter Worrell 1S65 

1865 John J. Rowland 1871 
1 871 George W. Ormsby 1873 

1873 Nicholas T. Walter 1S74 

1874 H. C. Snowden 1878 



Albin P. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

1878 William Eves, Jr. 1880 

1880 Samuel Dutton 1S81 

1 88 1 William Campbell 1882 
Ottey elected Feb. 21st, 1882, resigned April 



ud, 18S2. 



Henry Green elected and qualified to fill unexpired term Aug. 3rd, 1882. 



1882 
1890 
1891 
1892 
1S94 



Henry Green 1890 

Terrence Reilly 1891 

Isaac Worrall 1892 

George J. Stiteler 1894 



N. B. Cooper resigned January 15, 1896 
Edward A. Price appointed to fill unexpired term to March 1897 
1897 Edward A. Price 1900 

1900 Henry C. Snowden 




SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



Semicentennial Committees. 



EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: 

George E. Darlington, Chairman. 

Thomas J. Dolphin, Secretary. Dr. Linnaeus FussELL, Secretary. 

Horace P. Green, Treasurer. 



Joseph W. Hawley, 
William H. Miller, 
Caleb Hoopes, 
Harry D. Pratt, 
Frank I. Taylor, 
H. R. Greenfield, 
Henry C. Bishop, 
Homer E. Hoopes, 
William Hardcastle, 
Dr. Trimble Pratt, 
William P. Hippie, 
C. Frank Williamson, 



Edward A. Price, 
Samuel P. Rush, 
Dr. J. H. Fronfield, 
H. C. Snowden, Sr., 
Emil Holl, 
Samuel W. Hawley, 
Joseph Chadwick, 
H. C. Howard, 
William L. Mathues, 
A. Lewis Smith, 
Thomas V. Cooper, 
Charles H. Pedrick, 



Charles R. Williamson, 
Edward H. Hall, 
George M. Lewis, 
C. J. Bechdolt, 
Samuel A. Field, 
William F. Lewis, 
John B. Robinson, , 
Joseph C. Seal, 
Isaac Johnson, 
Dr. T. C. Stellwagen, 
Winfield S. Worrall, 
Leon H. Watters. 



Daniel Rice, 
William Broadbelt, 
Wellington Greavy, 
Carolus M. Broomall, 
Joseph E. Quinby, 
Frank Henderson, 
William Woodward, 
Pennell L. Webster, 
Alfred L. Hawkins, 
H. W. Rhodes, 
Friend W. Regester, 
Mrs. F. W. Cook, 
Mrs. W. S. Worrall, 
Mrs. Warren A. Baker, 



ENTERTAINMENT : 

Emil Holl, Chairman. 
Harry Ottey, 
J. W. Cooper, 
D. Hardcastle, 
John Nolan, 
S. P. Rush, 
Lafayette Lindsay, 
Edward Rigby, 
Frank B. Rhodes, 
H. J. Makiver, 
Reuben Bailey, 
Milford Baker, 
Miss Julia Brown, 
Miss Sue A. Dolphin, 
Mrs. Joseph Leedom. 

PARADE: 



Edward English, 
George Fisher, 
Edward McClintock, 
Charles Haworth, 
Joseph Blythe, 
Joseph Leedom, 
E. S. Martin, 
Lewis C. Hazlett, 
I. N. Flounders, 
W. C. Alexander, 
J. Edward Smith, 
Mrs. H. P. Engle, 
Mrs. Benj. Broadbelt, 



Winfield S. Worrall, Chairman. 



William L. Mathues, 
Samuel A. Field, 
Harry Hedge, 
Philip J. Donnelly, 
Frank I. Taylor, 
Joseph W. Palmer, 
P. H. Reilly, 
Richard Fields, 
A. Lewis Ottey, 
John Carpenter, 



Thomas J. Dolphin, 
S. R. McDowell, 
James E. Miller, 
George W. Carey, 
Garrett Burton, 
Lieut. W. C. Tuckerman, 
William H. Tricker, 
Thomas Pratt, 
William R. Ottey, 
George Ray, 



J. Harris Sloan, 
James Flounders, 
J. Lord Rigby, 
Walter L. Rhodes, 
Peter Parker, 
Lieut. A. W. Mathues, 
Dr. T. D. Young, 
James McKniff, 
Lafayette Lindsay, 
Jordan Cavener. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



W. T. Howell, 
J. Elliot Taylor, 
W. F. Broening, 
H. M. McMullen, 
B. T. Levis, 
William Russell, 
B. F. Fields, 
E. H. Garwood, 
S. P. Rush, 
T. V. Cooper & Sons, 
Hughes & Brother, 
Carey & Brother, 
J. W. Mathues, 
Mrs. Rice, 
Chester Candy Co., 
George M. Lewis, 
T. D. Cooper, 
Van L. Wolf, 
A. Stehle, 
Charles H. Pedrick. 



INDUSTRIAL 

Frank Williamson, 

H. C. Snowden, Jr., 

Harry L. Battin, 

E. L. Cunningham, 

T. C. Rorer, 

W. G. Hough, 

H. C. Johnson, 

M. C. Michener, 

W. S. Westcott, 
Wardle Ellis, 
J. H. Fleming, 
Joseph Blythe, 
George B. Allen, 
Major & Suter, 
Mrs. Cook, 
J. E. English, 
William F. Lewis, 
Benjamin Broadbelt, 
E. Holl, 
John Bader, 



Chairman. 

W. C. Ball, 

George E. Adams, 

H. P. Engle, 

T. D. Mullin, 

W. C. Rigby, 

J. Boyer, 

J. J. Rowland, 

H. D. Pratt, 

W. E. Dickeson, 

Joseph Chadwick, 

P. W. Ware, 

P. L. Webster, 

P. H. Reilly, 

Estate T. J. Haldeman, 

Daniel McClintock, 

W. A. Cloud, 

F. P. Malin, 

J. Kirschnek, 

Samuel Dutton, 



RECEPTION : 

H. R. Greenfield, Chairman. 



Henry C. Snowden, Sr. 
Preston W. Ware, 
Wm. K. Broadbelt, 
Walter L. Rhodes, 
Wm. H. Hardeastle. 



Richard Fields, 
George Whittaker, 
William Patterson, 
Dr. J. H. Fronfield, 



Dr. Harry L. Smedley 
Albin P. Ottey, 
George W. Carey, 
Alfred B. Worrall, 



FINANCE: 

William P. Hipple, Chairman. 



James H. Sweeney, 
H. C. Snowden, Jr., 
C. Frank Williamson, 
Samuel P. Rush, 
J. E. English, 



Joseph E. Quinby, 
Harry Haywood, 
J. Lord Rigby, 
Warren A. Baker, 
Dr. Ernest L. Clark. 



TRANSPORTATION : 



Emil Holl, 

Samuel R. McDowell, 
Thomas S. Fields, 
S. H. Appleton, 

DECORATION : 



C. J. Bechdolt, Chairman. 
William H. Miller, 
Thomas J. Osborne, 
James G. Ruth, 
Frank Downing. 



LITERARY: 

Horace P. Green, Chairman. 
A. G. C. Smith, 
Henry L. Broomall, 
T. Chalkley Palmer, 
Leon H. Watters. 



Samuel A. Field, Chairman. 

A. O. Reynolds, 

Howard Rowland, 

James McKniff, 

Wardle Ellis, 

Joseph E. Quinby. 

PRINTING: 

George E. Darlington, Chairman. 
Dr. E. M. Harvey, 
Thomas J. Maitland, 
William E. Williamson, 
U. G. Realey. 



8 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



MUSIC: 

Charles H. Pedrick, Chairman. 

William H.Calvert, 

Miss Mamie Donnelly, 

W. W. Davis, 

Frank L. Lee, 

Miss Henrietta Smedley, 

Edmund T. Kuendig. 



PRESS : 

Thomas V. Cooper, Chairman. 

John B. Robinson, 

T. Speer Dickson, 

Joseph C. Chadwick, 

Edward J. Lindsay, 

Samuel E. Turner, 

Harry P. Ottey. 



P. H. Reilly, 
Frank E. Ottey, 



BADGES: 

Frank I. Taylor, Chairman. 

W. S. Worrall, W. R. Hergerseheimer, 

H. R. Greenfield, William H. Carey. 



\ I i 





/ 



EAST WASHINGTON STREET. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

Descriptive Chapter. 



BY T. CHALKLEY PALMER. 




ITIES and towns that lie beside sheltered harbors opening upon 
navigable waters, be their history known or unknown, awake no 
question in the mind of the wayfaring stranger. The "little 
town by river or seashore" is there for the most obvious of reasons. So 



.•-*-' ^> 




H T J 7J I 





BOROUGH HALL. 



10 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

also, in long past days of feud and warfare, was the town "mountain built 
with [momentarily] peaceful citadel." But in our country, and in our 
own time, the uninformed casual traveller often has cause to wonder why 
this or that particular hill, rather than some equally available neighbor 
ing one, has been selected for the site of a town or a village. 

Certain things are sent upon us for our sins. Among them is govern- 
ment — national, state and county. The County of Chester, in Pennsyl- 
vania, founded by William Perm in 1682, originally embraced all the 
territory now within the limits of Delaware County. The seat of the 
county government was in the old town of Chester. There it remained 
until, in 1 786, the northern parts of the county having become will set- 
tled, a more central location for the courts seemed desirable. West 
Chester was therefore established as the new county town. But the 
arrangement remained undisturbed only three years. Chester County 
was extensive in area and comparatively populous. The Legislature of 
Pennsylvania, listening to the petition of many citizens, separated the 
southeastern portion and erected therein the County of Delaware. Ches- 
ter once more became a county town, and wore its honors unmolested 
tor the space of sixty years. 

But the northern and western portions of the new county ceased not 
to grow in population and importance; and again, as in the case of Ches- 
ter County, there came a time when a more central location for the "Seat 
of Justice" was loudly demanded. The agitation for the removal of the 
Court House and Jail began in 1845. The act of Legislature providing 
for this removal was passed in 1848. The interim was a time of warfare. 
A full account of the protracted contest is to be found in Dr. George 
Smith's excellent "History of Delaware County." The story is of all 
the more interest, because it is told by one of the most prominent pro- 
ponents of the change. The act of Legislature carried with it the pro- 
vision, that the new public buildings should be located not more than 
one-half mile from the Almshouse, and no farther from the "State road 
leading from Philadelphia to Baltimore." Nothing could have been 
more definite, for the Almshouse was hard by the State road ; and the 
town, which might in reason be expected to grow up about the new 
public buildings, would need a comparatively level area, not too small, 
whereon to spread. So was the hill-top chosen. Minshall Painter,* 
looking upon the map of Delaware County, and seeing that here at last 
a central location had been found, called the unborn town Media. The 
gentleman's "pretty wit" has made us his debtors. 

The charter of Media, with its famous provision against the sale of in- 
toxicants, still intact after fifty years, was granted in 1850. The laying 
out of streets and the building of houses had already commenced. 

The population of the three hundred acres covered by the charter, be- 
ginning with the few families of the vicinity, who were for the most part 
engaged in farming, was from year to year increased in a satisfactory man- 
ner.and reached the respectable total of nine hundred in i860. The sta- 
tistics of that same year read curiously at the present time, It appears 
that there were in the Borough, 19 horses, 24 milch cows, 12 "other 

* We are indebted for these particulars to Dr. George Smith. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



It 



cattle," 20 sheep, 32 swine; and that the value of all these was $3,432. 
Also, that the borough produced that year 256 bushels of wheat, 50 
bushels of rye, 860 bushels of Indian corn, 170 bushels of oats, 578 
bushels of Irish potatoes. From all of which it would seem that much 
of the area was still under vigorous cultivation. But already several rows 
of substantial houses had been built, and corner lots were, in the central 
portion, mostly occupied. The Court House with its ample square, 
formed the nucleus wherefrom the town spread to south, west and east. 
The buildings were, from the start, mainly of brick. Dwelling houses, 
stores, hotels, churches, livery stables, markets, and all proper acces- 
sories of a town followed fast. Media was then and still remains es- 
sentially a residence town. 

In the seventies the Borough became a very popular resort for summer 
boarders. Chestnut Grove House, Charter House, Worrell Mansion and 
(in the vacations of Miss M. L. Eastman's school for young ladies,) 
Brooke Hall, were filled to overflowing with Philadelphians and others 




STATE STREET, EAST FROM ORANGE. 

who desired, and who found here as in no other place so near the great 
city, the rus in urbe, the country air, the shade and quiet and coolness of 
the open, without the isolation and the numberless inconveniences of 
back-wood and remote, unpeopled hills. This movement had a most 
beneficial result upon the town. Many who came to spend a month 
returned as permanent residents. The character of these and other set- 
tlers has to some extent been determined by the prohibition clause of 
the Charter. Those who have made a careful study of the matter are of 
the opinion, that our growth in population has not been retarded in the 
least by our peculiar provision against the sale of intoxicants, and furth- 
er, that the average character of our citizens has been affected thereby 
most beneficially. Opinions may vary as regards such questions. The 



12 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

fact remains, that without the aid of any large manufactures, without any 
boom influence of any kind, and without any legalized provision for the 
quenching of alcholic thirst, we have grown peacefully and wholesomely 
to a community of 3,500. This is no Jonah's ground, springing up over 
night and withering before mid-day. It is a slow, sure growth, such as 
promises an indefinite continuation. Business is carried on in a satis- 
factory way, and in some lines to no small extent. But it is as a resi- 
dence town that Media more praticularly excels. If there is any salient 
characteristic common to the bulk of the citizens, it is a tendency to live, 
rationally and after the wisest manner, rather than to spend days in per- 
sonal warfare, and nights in mapping campaigns, all wasted upon un 
necessary accumulation of wealth. Churches, schools, scientific and 
literary societies, are so many evidences that we do not altogether forget 
the ancient and profound saying : "Life is more than meat, and the body 
than raiment." 

Media is located about five miles north of Chester, eleven miles in a 
straight line east-by-south from West Chester, and about twelve miles 
west of Philadelphia. By rail the distance from Broad and Market Sts., 
Philadelphia, is 14. 1 miles. Steam communication with that city is by 
the Central Division of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore R. 
R. There are twenty-five trains each way daily, several of which are ex- 
press. The express time from Broad Street Station is twenty-two to 
twenty-six minutes. The railroad crosses the valleys of Cobb's, Darby 
and Crum creeks, the last by way of a high bridge over a narrow and 
beautiful gorge. West of Media is a similar high bridge, wherefrom 
the passenger is afTored a wide outlook upon the broad valley of Ridley 
creek. The same railroad gives frequent and satisfactory communica 
tion with West Chester, Kennett Square, Oxford and Port Deposit. 

Besides steam communition, there are two electric roads with termini 
in Media. The Delaware County and Philadelphia Electric Railway 
runs its cars every twenty minutes during the day. At Angora 
connection is made with the Union Traction Company's cars running to 
the foot of Chestnut St. The Media and Chester line runs cars every 
half-hour, and the trip to Market Square, in Chester, is made ap- 
aproximately in thirty minutes. Both these roads carry many passengers 
through delightful sections of our county. 

Of the many highways radiating from Media, two deserve especial 
mention. The first is the Providence street road, leading from Chester 
over the hills to Willistown. This road was laid out in larger part about 
the year 1683. From Chester to Media, and for some miles beyond, it 
is telforded, and affords good going throughout the year The other 
turnpike has already been referred to incidentaly. It is known as the 
"State Road" and it extends from Philadelphia, through the most popul- 
ous upland portions of Delaware and Chester counties, to Baltimore. It 
may now be considered as traversing our borough by way of Washington 
St. It originally ran diagonally from near the eastern terminus of Wash- 
ington, to State near Jackson, and gave the name to State. The anci- 
ent route is still to be traced by a shallow depression south of State near 
Jackson, by an old stone bridge in the valley east of Gayley, and by a 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 1 3 

cutting in the hill still farther east.^ This road passes through Concord- 
ville, Chadd s Ford and Kennett Square, and is a main highway. 

Media stands upon the divide between Crum and Ridley creeks. 
Those two streams arise far up among the hills of Chester County, run 
approximately parallel courses, and empty into the Delaware less than 
two miles apart. The country they traverse is underlaid by very ancient 
rocks — gneisses and hornblends, far older than the coal beds, twisted and 
broken during middle and later geologic time, ana rounded into hills and 
valleys at last. Off some unknown shore, borne down by hurrying 
streams from some now altogether vanished hills, the sediment was drop- 
ped uncounted centuries ago. Later came earthquakes ol inconceivable 
violence, grindings and twistings, influx and reflux of the seas. The 
level beds were distorted and broken, the .Pennsylvania mountains were 
forced up into the air. Delaware County's area became a place of cracks 
and crevices. Some of the cracks were wide and deep, and they extended 
in a northwest and southeast direction. It was through them that our 
creeks found easiest passage to the lowland. Other smaller cracks ran, 
with somewhat less regularity, at right angles to this. The smaller 
streams, tributary to the creeks, followed the small cracks as the creeks 
had followed the large. Under the combined action, slow but sure, of 
frost and water and atmosphere, the sharp angles and steep walls of 
stone at length were rounded off. Through unimaginable tribulations, 
the country came at last to be one of rolling hills and interlacing valleys. 
No civilized and populous region is more full of quiet beauty. 

Media is elevated three hundred feet above tide, but it is only three 
miles from the terrace bounding the lowlands of the river — a long, regu- 
lar hill, at the base of which once roared the surf of the ancient Dela- 
ware Bay. From the highest point in the town, one may look off to 
southward and see across tops of trees growing on the lowlands, the 
bright waters of the river, and white sails of vessels bound up or down. 
Beyond lies New Jersey, showing as a blue streak, cloudlike, fair in its 
remoteness. At nighf, the hoarse whistles of steamers are to be heard 
answering each other on the river. 

To the east one perceives the land to slope gently away to the hem- 
lock-haunted valley of Crum. Sweeter stream run nowhere through 
peaceful meadows into noble river. 

Turn to the west, and you shall see a landscape not devoid of wildness. 
Scroggie valley, a "little brother of the great Chester Valley," with its 
lake and its rill ; the wide vale of Ridley Creek, losing itself by degrees 
in the tangled hills to the northwest ; Mineral Hill, rugged and scarred , 
the heights of Lima and the stately dome of Elwyn. And when the sun 
sinks of a summer evening behind those western hills, and the hues of 
that lanscape shift and change; or when of an afternoon, a thunder 
storm comes slowly down the valley ; then does one at last pereceive the 
full charm of this little bit of the world which is at his own door. 

To the north, the hills go gradually up and up, until at last, in the 
South Valley Hill, we reach as it was the rim of the country side. 

As nearly as may be in the geographical centre of the county, we are 
on all accounts most fortunately situated. The surrounding country is 



14 SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

beautiful, fertile, wholesome — and it is not ours to "sigh for Lebanon," 
when our 

" limbs have here increased 

Upon a pastoral slope so fair, 
And looking to the South, and fed 
With honeyed rain and delicate air." 

We have here pure water, and whatever makes for health and long 
life. Ridley Creek, from which the water supply is taken, comes from 
uplands void ot towns or other sources of contamination. We do not 
have contagious diseases in Media. The death rate for the last six years 
has been but 14. 1 perthousand. Of all who died during the same period: 

42 per. cent, were over 60 years of age. 

26 " " " " 70 " " " 

9.8 " " " " So " " " 

2 " " " " 90 " " " 

In the year's 1899, of the total deaths of adults : 

j j per cent, were over 60 years of age. 

20 " " " «< 70 " " " 

These figures are from data supplied by the Board of Health. They 
are by no means exceptional. Mr. A. P. Ottey's record of deaths, which 
runs back for twenty years, shows that the rate was 13.1 per thousand 
in 1890, and 8.8 per thousand in irfSo. 

Such results come from clear and wholesome air, water and streets, to- 
gether with the natural advantages ot Media's situation as regards drain- 
age. These things we owe in part to nature and in part to the wise 

management of the town's past and present rulers. 



1 6 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

Media Churches. 

Providence Meeting House. 

William Penn and his colony of Friends, settling in this county in 1682, 
rapidly extended their settlements radiating lrom Chester. 

Many emigrants came over and settled in what was then Providence 
Township, since divided into the townships of Upper Providence and 
Nether Providence. Religious meetings were first held by Friends in 
Providence Township in 1684, although the place ol meeting is not now 
definitely known. 

Providence Meeting had its origin in the meetings held at the house 
of Thomas Minshall. He lived about where William L. Green lived a 
few years ago, southeast of the present meeting house grounds, and the 
foundations ot this house can yet be see in what used to be William L. 
Green's orchard. 

There was no regular meeting house here until 1699, although a queer 
little bit of local history seems to indicate a previous meeting. Sarah, 
Elizabeth and Rebecca, three daughters of John Houlston, "passed meet- 
ing" on the same day ; viz, on i-mo 2, 1685, and were married to Peter 
Taylor, James Swaffer and William Gregory, respectively, and a fourth 
daughter, Martha, was married to David Ogden before the close of that 
year. They may, however, have "passed" at one of the meetings held 
at a private house. 

In 1699 Robert Carter and others were appointed a committee to 
select a suitable site for a new meeting house for Providence Meeting, 
then called Thomas Minshall's Meeting. Although the Sandy Bank 
burying ground was the place suggested, the Committee selected a lot 
of ground "at the further end of 'lhomas Minshall's land by the high 
road side," and Thomas Minshall donated to them an acre of ground, 
the present meeting house grounds in part. 

On this donated land the first meeting house was built in 1699, 
and the first monthly meeting held at Providence Meeting House was 
on 9-mo 25, 1700. 

Old Providence Meeting has now been established for more than two 
hundred years, and it would be hard to compute the amount of good it 
has accomplished in the community in that time. Some six generations 
have lived and flourished subject to its influence. In earlier times this in- 
fluence was most powerful in spiritual and in temporal affairs; it watch- 
ed over its members in health and in distress, carefully eyed their engage- 
ments in marriage and business, prevented disputes among its members, 
educated the young, and provided a burying place for the interment of 
its dead. Its greatest care now is over matters of a religious and educa- 
tional nature. Its influence has been universally exerted for the better- 
ing of humanity. This influence still continues ; as years pass it has a 
widening sphere in which to be exerted. 

First Methodist Episcopal Church. 
The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Media is 49 years old. A 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 1 7 

lot was purchased in August, 185 1, on West State street, 80x150 feet, 
for $200. The first Board of Trustees was Charles Williamson, Sr., 
Daniel T. Hawkins, Robert Watkin, Hiram Pyle, George Williamson, 
Sr., David Kruger, Joseph Iliff, John Hardcastle and Jabez Lawton, all 
now deceased. 

In the summer of 1852, Rev. Ignatius T. Cooper, D. D., preached fre- 
quently on Sabbath afternoons beneath the apple trees on the church 
lot. The corner stone of the church was laid by Bishop Levi Scott in 
the summer of 1854. 1 he church was built of stone, 40x60 feet, two 
stories. The first service was held in the basement on Sabbath Aug. 19, 
1855. The Church was dedicated August 26, 1855. In 1858 Rev. I. T. 
Cooper took charge. All these years the church was connected with 
Village Green circuit. In March, 1859, at the request of the church, it 
was made a station. Rev. Jeremiah Pastorfield was its first pastor, being 
appointed in March, 1859. The first choir was organized and led the 
singing on April 14, 1 861. Total membership at this time, 241. Of 
the original members of the church very few remain — Mrs. Prudence 
Hawkins, Mrs. E. B. Kitts, Mrs. Mary E. Williamson, T. Chalkley Chal- 
fant and his wife, James C. Henderson, Mrs. Eliza Hardcastle, James 
Sweeney and his wife, Joseph Tuckerman and his wife. 

The Sunday School numbers about 198, with Wm. H. Tricker, super- 
intendent. The present pastor of the church is Rev. Aaron Rittenhouse. 
The officers of the Board of Trustees are Albin P. Ottty, President ; C. 
Frank Williamson, Secretary ; Ernest L. Clark, Treasurer ; Harry L. 
Smedley, Secretary of Official Board ; Miss Martha E. Baker, Financial 
Secretary. 

Media Presbyterian Church. 

The first preaching service looking towaids the organization of a 
Presbyterian Church in Media, was conducted by Rev. James W. Dale, 

D. D., in the old school house on the Providence Road, a little south of 
the Worrell Mansion, on March 10th, 1850. Preaching servi-es were 
next held in the Court House. The present building was dedicated, 
October 1 ith, 1855. 

The congregation was organized July 8th, 1859, by the election of the 
following board of trustees : — Rev. James W. Dale, William Black, 
Nathan Shaw, Samuel Stephens, William Beatty, Joseph Rowland, An- 
drew G. Gayley and Richard Holmes. 

The Church was organized Oct. 26th, 1865, with 46 members, three 
deacons and four elders. Rev. James W. Dale, D. D., was called to be 
its first Pastor. Dr. Dale continued as pastor till Aug. 3rd, 1871. Rev. 

E. H. Robbins was called Nov., 1871, installed April 16th, 1872, and 
remained till the spring of 1886. The present pastor, Rev. David Tully, 
D. D., was called Aug. 18, 1886, and installed October of the same year. 
The present members of the session are : Rev. D. Tully, D. D., Moderator; 
Cal. I. Leiper, Clerk; Robert M. Henderson, Treasurer ; John G. Mackey, 
Paul McKnight, Henry Riddle, A. G. C. Smith, Leon H. Watters. 

The present members of the board of trustees are Cal. I. Leiper, Presi- 



I 8 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

dent, Paul McKnight, Secretary ; Robert M. Henderson, Treasurer ; John 
G. Mackey, Leon H. VVatters, Ernest R. Yarnall, Morton Z. Paul, J. W. 
Mathues, A. O. Reynolds, A. B. Adams, E. S. Martin and Henry Riddle. 
A. G. C. Smith is the clerk of the congregation. The Sabbath School 
first met in the house of John C. Beatty, in 1852, on the site where the 
Charter National Bank now stands. It also held sessions in the Court 
House. John G. Mackey is the present superintendent. 

Church of the Nativity, B. V. M. 

Prior to 1863 there was no Catholic Church in Media. From 1859 
until that year mass was celebrated by the Pastor ot Ivy Mills in the 
homes of Edward Dugan and Mrs. Jane Farnan. Through the efforts of 
the Rev. Thomas Kyle, pastor of St. Thomas Church at Ivy Mills, the 
brick structure now used as a Sunday School was built and dedicated 
September 14th, 1862. In 1863 the Rev. Henry L.Wright was appoint- 
ed Pastor of Ivy Mills and of the mission in Media. 

In November 1878, the late Archbishop Wood decided to give Media 
a resident priest and appointed Father Wright the first pastor of the 
Church of the Nativity, and for thirty years he attended faithfully to the 
spiritual wants of the Catholics in this locality and left behind him as a 
monument of his zeal and piety the beautiful stone church at the corner 
of Monroe and Franklin streets. He also built the present rectory. 
On June 19th, 1881, the corner stone was laid. 

The Church was dedicated June, 1882, by the late Bishop O'Hara of 
Scranton. Just ten years after the dedication Father Wright retired and 
was succeeded by the Rev. Peter Quinn. The latter remained in charge 
until October, 1893, when Father Wright again assumed the rectorship 
of the Church in Media. At the request of the Rev. Henry L. Wright 
the present rector, Rev. Francis Aidan Brady, was appointed March 2nd, 
1899. 

The societies connected with the Church are the Sacred Heart, Sodal- 
ity of the B. V. M., The Temperance, and The Men and Ladies Benefi- 
cial. The choir is under the leadership of Miss Cyrilla Holl and the 
organist of the Church is Miss May O'Brien. 

The First Baptist Church. 

The First Baptist Church, was organized by a number of Baptists of the 
Borough and vicinity, meeting in the Court House June 26th, 1 87 1 . 
Casper H. Rudolph, was moderator of the meeting and Wm. Russell, Sr., 
clerk. The present house of worship was dedicated to the service of 
God, May 2nd, 1872. Sept. 12th, 1872, the church was regularly recog- 
nized as a Baptist church by the representatives of the sister churches, 
appointed to attend the council called for that purpose. The first 
officers of the church were as follows: — Moderator, C. H. Rudolph; 
Clerk, Wm. Russell, Jr. ; Trustees, C. H. Rudolph, W. Cowperthwaite, 
W r m Russell, Sr., Wm. Russell, Jr.; Deacons, Andrew M. Mathias, Wm. 
Russell, Sr., C. H. Rudolph ; Treasurer, C. H. Rudolph. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 1 9 

The following have officiated as Pastors during the history of the 
church:— Rev. J. T. Judd, 1873— 1875 ', Rev. H. C. Applegarth, 1875 — 
1876, Rev.T. G. Wright, 1878— 1881 ; Rev. W. R. Patton, 1881 — 1899. 
The present officers 01 the church are: — Pastor, Rev. W. D. Thatcher, 
1899; Trustees.Samuel Bryson, J. J. B. Robinson, i'homas Hibberd,John 
Madill, John Piatt, E. K. Acker, Wm. McChntock ; Deacons, Samuel 
Bryson, Davis Pugh, Samuel B. Moore, E. K. Acker, John Piatt, J. 
J. B. Robinson. Clerk, Van L. Wolf. Treasurer, U. G. Realey. Present 
membership of the church, 310. Present value of church property is 
$10,000. The church has a present fund toward a new church building 
of $9,000, which is rapidly increasing. 

Orthodox Friends. 

The Friends' meeting house (Orthodox Branch; at North avenue and 
Third street, was erected by Chester Monthly Meeting of Friends the 
latter part of the year 1875. The first monthly meeting was held there- 
in on 6th month 26th, 1876. Meetings for worship were held on First- 
day afternoons, until 12th mo. 31st, 1877, since which time they have 
been held on First and Fourth day mornings. 

During the autumn of 1885, the western end of the building was 
erected for the use of Concord Quarterly Meeting, which has been held 
here since 2nd mo. 1886. The usual attendance at meetings for wor- 
ship ranges from one hundred and fifty in winter to two hundred or 
more during the summer. 

Many Friends have been attracted to Media by the prohibition features 
of its Charter and the absence of open saloons, and have erected perma- 
nent homes. A school is maintained under the care of the meeting in a 
pleasant building on the shady lawn. Meetings for worship are held 
throughout the year on First and Fourth day mornings at ten o'clock, 
when the presence of visitors is always welcome. 

Campbell A. M. E. Church. 

This is the oldest Methodist organization in Media, white or colored, 
and is really one of the oldest of its kind in the county. It was organiz- 
ed October 13th, 1842. Its first Trustees were Caiser Glasgow, Benja- 
min Brown, and William Craig. The ministers who served at different 
times. — Rev. M. F. Shiby, Rev. Grimes, Rev. P. M. Laws, Rev. Lewis 
Hood, Rev. Wm. H. Bryant. Rev. Frank Bradley, is the present pastor. 
Names of present Trustees : — Joseph Miller, Peter Parker, Benj. Harri- 
son, John C. Linsey, James Bratcher, R. A. Thomas, Harry Frisby, 
Geo. Bishop, and Pusey Nicholson. 

A. M. E. Church. 

The Union A. M. E. Church, N. Olive St., Media, was dedicated Oct. 
1893, under the pastorate of Rev. Charles H. Nichols. Officers are 
now as follows: — Stewards, Nathan Lockwood, Jeremiah Newman, 
Charles Brown, Wm. Batipps, George Johnson, James Seeny, Edward 
Brown. Trustees, Jacob Johnson, Charles Lindsay, Howard Price, 
Eugene Lebue, Isaiah Ball, Stephen Scott, Evans Simmons. Rev. Wm 
H. Guy, pastor. 



20 



SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

Educational Institutions. 



Media Public Schools. 

Prior to 1856, the children of the Borough attended the schools of 
Upper Providence township at "Sandy Bank" and at the old school 
house which stands on the east side of Providence Road, at the end of 
Jefferson street. 

The first school board of the borough was organized March 29, 1856, 
and the schools were opened May 5, of that year, with Edmund Cheyney 
and Ellen Valentine as teachers. The buildings used for school purposes 
were a one room brick house on Lemon street, midway between State 





MEDIA HIGH SCHOOL. 



and Eront streets, and a one room frame house erected by the school 
board on the S. W. corner of Front and Lemon streets. 

On May 28, i860, school was opened in the new building erected at 
the S. W. Corner of Third and Olive streets. This building was twice 
remodeled (1868 and 1875), and in 1884 was torn down to give place to 
the High School building which now occupies the old site. The pres- 
sent tructure is built of brick with stone trimmings, has an excellent 
system ot steam heating and ventilation, and is supplied with gas and 
water. The building contains twelve school rooms, all well lighted, and 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



21 



thoroughly equipped with modern apparatus. A two room building 
was erected in East Media, in 1894. 

The schools are thoroughly graded, the course covering a period oi 
twelve years. Drawing and vocal music are taught in all the grades. 
The Higli School provides two courses of study; tor three years and 
four years respectively. The former is an English coun-e, with one 
year in Latin, while the latter covers the main features of the three years' 
course, with two years in German and four years in Latin. 

The growth of the schools is shown by the steady increase in the teach- 
ing force. In 1856 two teachers wsre employed; in 1861, three ; in 1869, 
four; in 1872, five; in 1879, six; in 1884, seven ; in 1885, nine; in 1889, 




EAST MEDIA PRIMARY SCHOOL. 

ten; in 1894, eleven ; in 1895, twelve ; in 1898, thirteen, besides the 
thirteen grade teachers, there is a special teacher of drawing and a spec- 
ial teacher of vocal music. 

List of Principals of Media Public Schools: — Edwards Cheyney, 1856, 
(4 months) ; Peter Sherwood, 1856, (1 month); Geo. M. Alsop, 1857, 
(5 months); Jos. Ad. Thomson, 1857-62 ; W. Wallace Sweet, 1862, (4 
months) ; C. W. Harlan, 1862-63 ; James Leys, 1863, (1 month) ; Daniel 
Lewis, 1864-65 ; Alice A. Moore, 1865, (3 months) ; Miss A. L. Boulton, 



22 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

1865-66; Anna M. Walter, 1866-72; Ruth V. Sharpless, 1872-74; Silas 
C. Delap, 1874, (5 months); B. N. Lehman, 1875-79 ; Wilmer N. Lam- 
born, 1879-81 ; A. G. C. Smith, 1881-85 5 E1 iza J- Brewster, 1885-89 ; 
Leon H. Watters, 1889— 

First School Board of the Borough : — H. Jones Brooke, Pres. ; R. H. 
Smith Sec'y. ; Wm. F. Pearce, Treas. ; Samuel P. Rush, D. R. Hawkins, 
Thos. T. Williams. 

Present School Board : — Horace P. Green, Pres. ; Geo. E. Whitaker, 
Sec'y. ; Edgar T. Miller, Treas. ; James W. Baker, Stephen H. Appleton, 
Henry C. Bishop. 

Friends' Select School. 

Friends' Select School at Media, was first opened on 9th Month 14th' 
1885, in the old rented building at the coiner of Washington and Gay- 
ley streets, and remained there for nine years. In the fall of 1895, it 
was removed to the northeast corner of Washington and Church streets, 
and remained there until 2nd Month 1st, 1S97, when it was removed to 
the old grounds at Washington and Gayley streets, on which site the 
present fine school building had been erected during 1896 — '97. At the 
start, it was under the care of a committee appointed by Providence Pre- 
parative Meeting, but on 7th Month 23rd, 1895, the care of the school 
was assumed by the Monthly Meeting to be known as "Friends' Select 
School under the care of Chester Monthly Meeting." 

The Principals of the school have been as follows, in their order: — 
Lydia S. Green, Annie E. Taylor, Caroline A. Barnes, Elizabeth E. Hart, 
Alice W. Jackson, Margaret R. Caley, Emma Fell Paxon and Alice A. 
Roberts, the last named being the present principal, and having as 
her assistants Esther E. Spicer and Annabel Hill. This is a fine school, 
grading with Friends' Central School, 15th and Race streets, Philadel- 
phia, and also preparing for Swarthmore College. Latin, French and 
German are taught in addition to the usual branches of a good English 
education. The school management is absolutely non-sectarian. 

The Kindergarten. 

Held in Friends' School building, Gayley Terrace. 

In this age of higher education in all branches of applied instruction, 
it is a matter of pride to the citizens of Media to remember that the little 
ones are not forgotten, and the most important part of their education is 
so well looked to in the Media Kindergarten. In a beautifully and taste- 
fully arranged room the children are taught through their natural in- 
stincts of exercise and play, that which lies at the foundation of all prac- 
tical education — correct observation and physical development. Froebel's 
idea of leading the child from "expression to impression" by "comparison 
to reasoning," has been well worked out in the Media Kindergarten. 

It opened in Media in the fall of 1883, when one was established in 
the Presbyterian parsonage. The next year it was moved to the corner 
of Washington and Church avenue, where it remained until the fall of 
1896, when it was again removed to its present pleasant and convenient 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



23 



quarters in the Friends' School building, under the efficient management 
of Misses Matilda B. and Elizabeth L. Sprogell. 

Children are received from 3 to 7 years of age. 

Especial attention is given to music and gymnastics. 

The Kindergarten will be open in September, 1900. Hours from 9 A. 
M. to 12 M. 




Brooke Hall. 

The late H. Jones Brooke, for whom Brooke Hall was named, erected 
the building for Miss Eastman in 1855. They were associated as part- 
ners in the school for several years. It was then purchased by Miss 
Eastman, who was the principal until 1890. The school was in charge 
of Mr. Shortlidge for the next year, and was then leased by Miss C. E. 
Mason. Miss Eastman's death occurred Feb. 17th, 1895. The school 
closed in 1897, and the building is now used for a summer bearding 
house. During its active school work it was largely patronized from all 
parts of the country. Mrs. President McKinley was a graduate, and 
Miss Harriet F. Gault, now Postmistress of Media, was her teacher. 



Media Academy, 

Formerly known as Shortlidge's Media Academy, was founded by 
Prof. Swithin C. Shortlidge, in 1875, and has been in successful operation 



24 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

since that time. Hundreds of boys have here been thoroughly prepared 
either directly for business or professional pursuits, or for entrance to the 
leading colleges. Its former students are now represented through prom- 
inent business and professional men in many parts ol the country. 

From the termination of Mr. Shortlidge's connection with the school, 
in 1893, till 1896, the proprietorship and management was in "The Media 
Academy Company," a corporation created under the laws of Pennsyl- 
vania and regularly organized for this purpose, while the school manage- 
ment, as far as related to instruction, discipline and domestic arrange- 
ments, was under the immediate charge of the present principal, Charles 
W. Stuart, who had been an instructor in the Academy for seveial years 
preceding his taking the principalship. In 1 896 Mr. Stuart leased irom 
the "Media Academy Company" the grounds, buildings and equipment 
and has conducted the Academy as principal and proprietor. The prin- 
cipal is assisted by a corps of able and experienced teachers, who devote 
their whole time to the school. 



Social Organizations. 

Institute of Science. 

The Delaware County Institute of Science was organized on Septem- 
ber 21, 1833, by George Miller, Minshall Painter, Dr. George Smith, 
John Miller and John Cassin. It was granted a charter in 1836, and in 
the following year built a hall in Upper Providence township, near the 
Rose Tree Hotel. In 1867, the Institute moved to its present building 
on South Avenue, in the borough of Media, which it erected with funds 
subscribed by its members and others in that year. 

The membership of the Institute numbers 110. It has a museum of 
local specimens in Botany, Mineralogy and Zoology, and a scientific 
library of about 5000 volumes. The general meetings of the Institute 
are held on the first Saturday of each month and the meeting of the four 
sections — Anthropological, Biological, Physical and Literary, are held 
weekly in the evenings. 

The present officers are : — President, T. Chalkley Palmer; Vice Presi- 
dents, Charles Potts, Henry L. Broomall ; Secretaries, Linnaeus Fussell, 

M. D., John L. Carver ; Treasurer, Carolus M. Broomall ; Librarian, 

Henrietta K. Broomall ; Board of Curators, Isaac S. Yarnall, chairman ; 

Dr. Linnaeus Fussell, T. P. Saulnier, Heniy C. Howard, Edgar T. Miller, 

Henry Mendenhall and the President. 

Masonic Bodies. 

Media has two flourishing Masonic bodies, Geo. W. Bartram Lodge, 
No. 289, F. & A. M., constituted, June 2, 1S56, and Media Royal Arch 
Chapter, No. 234, constituted May 21st, 1870. These bodies occupy the 
large hall at State and Orange streets, meeting monthly, the Lodge on 
Monday on or before full moon, and the Chapter the Monday following 
full moon. The Lodge has a membership of about 150 and the Chapter 
about 75. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

The G. A. R. 



25 



Bradbury Post No. 149, Dept. of Penna., G. A. R. Organized, Media, 
May, 18S0. Semi-monthly meetings. Object, Friendship, Loyalty and 
Charity. Highest membership 149, present membership, I 14. Present 
officers : — Commander, Samuel R. McDowell ; Senior vice-Commander, 
Joseph Pratt ; Junior Vice-Commander, Dr. L. FusseU ; Chaplain, Lewis 
T. Hessler ; Quartermaster, Jesse Griswold ; Surgeon, Dr. W. T. W. 
Dickeson ; Officer of the Day, Charles H. Pedrick ; Officer of the Guard, 
James Ruffine , Adjutant, A. V. B. Smith ; Sergeant Majur, James H. 
Worral! ; Quartermaster Sergeant, John Grimm ; Outside Sentinel, Henry 
D. Carpenter ; Inside Sentinel, William A. Seal ; Trustees, O. Flagg Bill- 
iard, Samuel P. Rush, A. V. B. Smith ; Captain Post Guard, Thomas J. 
Dolphin ; Lieut. Post Guard, Charles H. Pedrick. 




»?<*;. *"4&l-i <ak2&* 



■2)/fiK^ 







— yiCDiA Club Builoipg 



The Media Club. 

This well-known organization of the gentlemen of Media and its vicin- 
ity, was organized in March, 1 891, with Samuel VV. Hawley as its first 
president ; Wm. E. Williamson, secretary; Homer E. Hoopes, treasuser. 
The first executive committee consisted of Horace P. Green, Walter M. 
Sharpies, W r m. F. Lewis, Geo. E. Darlington and Geo. M. Lewis. 

The preliminary meetings were held over the old post office building, 
next to Hawley & Snowden's hardware store. Permanent quarters were 
first secured in the second and third stories of the Newbold building, at 
the corner of South avenue and State streets. 

In May, 1894, the club was incorporated, having then about seventy 
members. Its present fine building, at the corner of South avenue and 
Washington streets, was started in '94 and completed in '95. The build- 
ing committee comprised Frank M. Brooke, C. J. Bechdolt and Ralph 



20 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

Buckley. The building scheme was based entirely upon bonds, $15,000 
being issued and taken by the members. The moneys received through 
these bonds, purchased the lot and paid for the building. They pay an- 
nually 5 per cent, interest, this being substantially guaranteed by the dues 
of the members. 

The building is well furnished, has a parlor, a reading room well sup- 
plied with all of the best current literature, a billiard and pool room and 
card rooms all on the first floor, the basement having shuffle boards. 
The amusements are entirely innocent and gentlemanly, no betting being 
allowed, nor any liquors. 

The second story shows a fine hall with dressing rooms and pantry, 
well suited to public entertainments. This part of the building is chiefly 
devoted to the uses of the Woman's Club. 

The club has added much to the attractiveness of Media as a place of 
residence, the members entertaining their friends, and the frequent, in- 
deed the nightly, meetings make it a place for pleasant recreation and 
enjoyment. 

The cut accompanying this brief description illustrates the architecture 
of the building. It is essentially a club house, modern in every respect, 
convenient and ornate. 

The present officers are : President, Dr. J. H. Fronfield , Vice Presi- 
dents, C. R. Williamson, C.J. Bechdolt ; Secretary, Isaac E. Johnson ; 
Treasurer, A. G. C. Smith. 

The annual dues of the club are $20, payable half yearly. The provi- 
sion of the by-laws for an initiation fee has been suspended until the 
membership reaches 100. It is now about 90. The Media Club is one 
of the fine institutions of the town, and must remain so for years, since 
club life has become a feature of every up-to-date community. 

The Women's Club. 

Although Media was not the first among suburban towns to respond 
to the Club movement, there has been for many years, a tendency among 
its women, toward co-operative action, through reading circles and other 
small associations of a more or less temporary character. These cul- 
minated in the organization called "The Woman's Club of Media." 
Feeling that better work in all directions could be effected, through the 
activities of Club life, a few women met on January 26, 1894, resolved to 
accomplish for their town, what was being so well done in neighboring 
communities. As is usual, with any new enterprise, for which experi- 
ence is lacking, mistakes and failures discouraged their earlier efforts. 
As time went on, however, and the members realized that the power of 
the Club for good, and its uplifting influence was reaching out far be- 
yond the limited circle of its founders, they were inspired with courage, 
and felt that the result justified their loyalty and devotion. 

If asked what the Club stands for the reply will be found in its avowed 
purpose to "create an organized centre of thought and action among the 
women, for the advancement of their interests, and for intellectual, moral 
and social development," — and by their efforts in these directions, to 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 2J 

promote the best interests of the community, through civic, educationa 
and social reform and advancement. 

The Club is now firmly established, with a membership of one hun- 
dred and sixty-five, and has become a recognized agency for good work 
along the lines above indicated. 

Present officers : — Clara Booth Miller, President ; Rebecca L. Smith, 
1st vice President ; Sarah Brooke Lewis, 2nd vice president; Dr. Francis 
N. Baker, 3rd vice president; Loraine M. Ketchum, recording secretaiy; 
Lydia G. Hawkins, corresponding secretary ; Edna K. Cheyney, 
treasurer. 

Media's Golf Club. 

The Springhaven Golf Club, which was the first club of this kind to be 
started in the vicinity of Media, was organized in October of 1896, with a 
membership of twenty-five, and for the following winter obtained per- 
mission to use the fields of the old "Springhaven Faim," at the northern 
end of the borough. The following April, a lease for a number of years 
was taken for the entire farm , and in November of 1899 another field 
was obtained, giving the club the use of about sixty acres of beautiful 
rolling country, about half of which is within the borough limits. When 
the club was first organized, there was some doubt as to whether it 
would be successful, the game of golf at that time being but little known 
in this neighborhood, but with the opportunity offered for playing, it at 
once became very popular and is now an assured success. Commencing 
with twenty-five, the membership rapidly increased until at the present 
time it numbers one hundred and sixty. 

The officers of the club are as follows : — President, George T. Butler; 
Vice President, Simon Delbert, Jr.; Secretary, Miss E. B. Reed ; Treas- 
urer, Harry W. Rhodes. 

Board of Governors — Dr. Charles H. Schoff, Dr. Caspar W. Miller, 
Mrs. Wm. H. Corlies, Mrs. Robert W. Downing, Rev A. J. Arnold! 
Henry P. Dixon, Thomas R. Tunis and Mrs. Somers Rhodes. 

Woman's Christian Temperance Union. 

The Media branch of the Woman's Christian Temperance Unicn was 
organized April 12, 1888, by Susan M. Fessenden of Maine, one of the 
National organizers. 

The meetings are held regularly on the fourth Wednesday of every 
month in the year, excepting July and August. 

Place of meeting : Hall of the Delaware County Institute of Science. 

Present officers : Clara B. Miller, President; Mary B. Russell, 1st 
Vice President; F. Alice Watters, 2nd Vice President; Mary T. Fussell 
3rd Vice President ; Ida V. Green, Corresponding Secretary; Henrietta 
K. Broomall, Recording Secretary ; Caroline L. Broomall, Treasurer. 

The aims of this organization are everywhere well known. Its work 
is for the protection of the home, and the application of Christian ethics 
to the laws and customs of mankind. Hence the motto, "For God and 
Home and Every Land." 



28 

F 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



\ 




Media Republican Club. 

The Media Republican Club was permanently organized on April 13, 
1899, and the following officers were elected : President, J. Lord Rigby ; 
Vice President, Wm. L. Mathues ; Recording and Corresponding Secre- 
tary, H. J. Makiver ; Financial Secretary, Win. PT. Harrison, Jr.; Treas- 
urer, Wm. P. Hippie. 

On July 10th, 1899, a charter was granted to the club by the Court of 
Common Pleas of Delaware County. The club rented for aheadquarters 
the property No. 1 1 1 North Olive street, and opened their club house 
July 20, 1899. 

Since the organization, the club has entertained many prominent men, 
and is now in a flourishing condition with 150 members. Membership 
in the club is limited to 200. 

The following are the present officers: President, J. Lord Rigby; 
Vice President, Wm. L. Mathues ; Recording and Corresponding Secre- 
tary, H. J. Makiver ; Financial Secretary, Wm, H. Harrison, Jr.; Treas- 
urer, Wm. P. Hippie ; Directors. Thos. S. Fields, David H. Stiteler, 
Newton P. West, H. C. Snowden, Jr., E. S. Hickman, Linwood J. Han- 
num, J. Harvey Smith, Jos. M. Rogers, Dr. S. A. Beale, J. H. Mender 
hall. 



semi-centennial souvenir 29 

The Media Fire & Hook & Ladder Company. 

The first fire apparatus was the property of the borough, and consisted 
of a hand engine, hose reel and a lot of leather hose. This old engine 
was like the schoolmaster of early days, it boarded around ; and when 
needed few were they who knew where to find it. 

The first officers elected were President Geo. E. Darlington; Secretary, 
Horace R. Manley ; Treasurer, E. H. Hall. 

On Sept. 16th, 1890, a meeting was held in the Council Chamber for 
the purpose of organizing a fire company of active and contributing 
members, to be subject to the rules and regulations of the Media Fire 
Protective Association. 

A constitution and By-Laws were adopted, a Charter obtained, and 
thus was launched the Media Fire & Hook & Ladder Company No. I 

The project was now started, and with its honored and respected Presi 
dent, Terrence Reilly, at the helm its success was certain. 

The first quarters of the Company were a stable on Jasper St., next to 
Orange, from there a move was made to State St., next to the present 
Post office, and on May 13th, 1893, to the present quarters in the 
Borough. Ihe day was ( virtually a holiday in the County, thtre 
being over 5000 visitors to witness the parade of visiting firtnun (rem 
Delaware and Chester Counties and from Philadelphia. 

The apparatus of the company consists of one La France Steam Fire 
Engine ; one truck equipped with ladders, poles, axes and chemical ex- 
tinguishers ; one nickel plated hose carriage that has taken \aluable 
prizes on various occasions ; one hose reel and two thousand feet of best 
hose, etc. 

The history of the Company has been one of saving property. On 
the roll of membership are found the names ot prominent statesmen, 
lawyers, bankers, doctors, merchants and mechanics all of whom 
are ever ready and willing to work for the public good when 
duty calls. The officers of the Company at this time are: — Piesident, 
Samuel A. Field ; Vice-President, William H. Harrison, Jr. ; Recording 
Secretary, Thomas J. Dolphin ; Financial Secretary, D. Otley Cummins; 
Treasurer, William P. Hippie ; Foreman, Vv infield S. Worrall ; Assistant 
Foreman, Warren A. Baker ; Engineer, Bernard J. Donnelly ; Assistant 
PZngineers, Wm. H. Woodward, Daniel Rice, A. Wilson Mathues, Frank 
Messick ; Directors, P. H. Reilly, Wm. C. Rigby, and Walter L. Rhodes. 

The Mt. Zion Lodge. 

The Mt. Zion Lodge, No. 61 F. & A. M., (colored), of Media, Pa., or- 
ganized, June, 1867, was first known as Mt. Hebrew, No. 47, afterwards 
changed to the above name. During all of this time it has never failed 
to discharge all its obligations, and at present is in a flourishing condi- 
tion, with a membership of forty-two. 

It is presided over by the following offiers : — Garrett Burton, W. M. ; 
Andrew Wrench, S. W. ; Joseph Nocho, J. W. ; Stephen Scott, Treas. ; 
Lucien J. Johnson, Sect'y. ; J. Latimer Paxon, Cor. Sec'y. 



^0 semi-centennial souvenir 

Media's Military. 

The first regular militia company was started Feb. 3rd, 1877. Its first 
officers were : Capt., John VV. Russell ; 1st Lieut., Lewis N. Suter ; 2nd 
Lieut, Jesse M. Baker. The Company was then called Young's Rifles, 
Co. G, nth Rgt. Inf., N. G. P. The name was afterwards changed to 
Cooper Rifles, lhe company was transfered to the 6th Rgt., and is now 
known as Company H, 6th Rgt., Inf., 1st Brig. N. G. P. The company 
since its organization has been three times called into active service : 
in the Pittsburg and Homestead Riots, and in the Spanish-Ameri- 
can War. It always answered promptly and with full ranks. It has 
been honored by having two of its members commissioned in the 
regular army, and one a Captain of Commissary in the U. S. Vol. 
Many of its old members are now fighting in the ranks in the Philippines. 
It is at present commanded by 1st Lieut. W. C. Tuckerman, with A. W. 
Mathues as 2nd Lieut. The following have been officers of this 
Company : — 

CAPTAINS. FIRST LIEUTS. SECOND LIEUTS. 

John W. Russell, Lewis N. Suter, Thos. R. Vernon, 

Jesse M. Baker, Charles Williamson, John Hawkins, 

James R. Cummins, William McClintock, E. Claude Goddard, 

William R. Carson, V. Gilpin Robinson, James C. Henderson, 

Ralph Lewis, William Leedom, A. Wilson Mathues. 

Henry H. Stewart, Wilmer C. Tuckerman. 
Walter Washabaugh. 

Kossuth Lodge, No. 393, I. O. O. F. 

This lodge was instituted on January 22nd, 1850, in the third story of 
the building at present occupied by the First National Bank, at that 
time known as Black's store. The first officers were: — N. G., N. 
Walter Fairlamb ; V. G., Peter Worrall ; Sec, Samuel Hunter; Asst. 
Sec, John Ottey ; Treas., J.M. Hunter. So many of the members went 
to the front during the war of the rebellion that the lodge for a while 
was compelled to suspend, but it was reorganized on May 7th, 1870. 

The present membership is 52. The invested funds of the lodge at 
the present time amount to $1700. 

The present officers are: — S. P. G., Wm. H. Tricker ; N. G., Harry P. 
Engle ; V. G., E. L. Cunningham ; Sec, Wm. H. Hardcastle ; Asst. Sec, 
Dr. Geo. W. Hinkson ; Treas., Thomas Heacock ; Trustees, Horace J. 
Malin, Wm. H. Henderson, and Edward Minton. Rep. to Grand Lodge, 
H.J. Malin ; Rep. to Orphanage, Samuel Bryson- 

Media Council, No. 749, Jr. O. U. A. M. 

This organization was formed November 21, 1 87 1, with 46 members 
on the roll. It meets in the Town Hall every Thursday evening. There 
is a funeral death benefit association attached which all members are 
privileged to join. The benefits are $250 upon the death of a member. 
Eight have died since its institution and their families have received the 



SEMI-CENTENNtAL SOUVENIR ^t 

benefits. The membership at the present time is 126. The present offi- 
cers are, Councillor, J. E. English ; Vice Councillor, Howard Byre ; Re- 
cording Secretary, Richard Fields ; Assistant Rec. Sec'y, George Nyce; 
Financial Secretary, R. E. Sharpless ; Treasurer, Frank E. Ottey ; Con- 
ductor, Elmer Clark ; Warden, VVm. Cribb ; Inside Sentinel, Charles 
Byre;Outside Sentinel, H. L. Welsh, Jr.; Past Councillor, L. E. English ; 
Trustees, Wm. Patterson, Samuel Gray and J. E. English ; Representa- 
tive to State Council, Richard Fields ; Alternate, R. E. Sharpless ; Rep- 
resentative to Funeral Benefit Association, F. E. Ottey ; Chaplain, Sam- 
uel Gray. The Council is in a flourishing condition. 

Brookhaven Grange. 

Brookhaven Grange was organized November 12th, 1898, with sixteen 
charter members, and a present membership of fifty-eight. 

The present officers are: — Worthy Master, J. E. Miller; Overseer, 
Thos. B. Palmer ; Lecturer, Letitia Edwards ; Steward, Wm. Conrad ; 
Ass't. Steward, E. K. Edwards; Chaplain, Clarence Bonsall; Treasurer, 
Thos. Palmer ; Gate Keeper, Alfred Barlowe ; Ceres, Ella Cloud ; Pomona, 
B. M. Miller; Flora, Evelyn Caldwell; Lady Ass't. Steward, Bertha 
Cloud ; Secretary, Annie R. Sidwell. 

Meetings are held bi-monthly in the Media Borough Hall, the first 
and third Wednesday evening of each month. 

The program consists of Agricultural topics, Music, and Literary 
exercises. 

The Temperance Association of Friends 

of Media, was formed by Orthodox Friends of Media, in 189c, for 
strengthening among themselves and others, principles of Temperance 
and Morality. 

To further this object, a Boys' Reading Room and Parlor has been 
maintained at No. 14 South Avenue, Media, for the use ol all boys of 
the borough. A well selected library of 7co volumes, with current peri- 
odicals, suitable for boys ; a carpenter shop, where modeling is done, 
and many interesting and attractive games, are some of the features 
which have drawn the lads to it, with encouraging results. The presi- 
dent of the Association is Stanley R. Yarnall, and the secretary is Han- 
nah Rhoades. 



32 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



Introductory Remarks 

by Henry C. Snowden, Burgess. 

following precedents long established, we meet together to-day to 
celebrate an important event in the career of our borough — the filtieth 
anniversary of its birth. 

History has been made rapidly on this western continent, but a little 
more than two hundred years having elapsed since the advent ol Wm. 
Perm in our State ; hence the pleasant borough in which we now reside 
has existed for about one-lourth of that time. 

What great changes have taken place since the birth of this nation ! 
From a tew scattered centres on the Atlantic seaboard we have grown 
in our mighty strength to a population of more than seventy millions, 
extending from ocean to ocean. Iron and steel have supplanted wood 
as structural materials, and steam and electricity have taken the place of 
the white sail and horse and of whale oil, while the telegraph and tele- 
phone have brought all the earth into easy communication. 

But even within the short life of our borough other changes of the 
utmost importance have occurred in the world. Political divisions have 
been adjusted and readjusted, unexplored regions have been brought 
within the realm of civilization, and the unification of the United States 
into the greatest of nations, made secure through the fiercest struggle at 
arms of modern times. 

In the great spirit of progressiveness which is leading us, it is only a 
question of where and when wonders will cease, as we unfold the future, 
and the hand and brain of man be stayed. 

When there shall come the time for our Centennial Anniversary, it 
may be the province of those who then address the citizens of Media co 
tell of still greater achievements in history and science. 

We will now, my friends, proceed with the order of the program. 



Opening Address 

by Edward A. Price, Esq. 

Fellow Citizens, Ladies and Gentlemen : — 

The Literary Committee of the Semi-Centennial Celebration, has kind- 
ly delegated to me the honor of making the opening remarks on this 
occasion. 

I fully appreciate the compliment, and in the name of the General 
Committee in charge, extend to all those present a warm and hearty 
welcome. 

It is not for me to go into details as to the past or future of the 
Borough. Others will follow to whom specific subjects have been as- 
signed, whose addresses will both interest and enlighten you. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 33 

A few words, however, on the causes and influences that led to the 
establishment of the place, and a glance at present conditions may not 
be amiss. 

In the year -1 845, that portion of the people of Delaware County re- 
siding in the Borough of Chester and parts adjacent were called upon the 
second time in the history of County affairs, to meet the question ol 
removing the County seat to a more central point. 

Prior to the year 1789, all the territory comprising the limits of the 
present Counties of Chester and Delaware, constituted then the County 
of Chester, the seat of which was the Borough of Chester, located on the 
River Delaware. 

Many of the inhabitants lived at remote points from the County seat, 
and there being no conveniences of travel, found it difficult to reach that 
place, when business or pleasure called them there. 

After a long agitation, the Legislature of Pennsylvania, in 1785, pass- 
ed an A rt, the effect of which was to remove the seat of justice from 
Chester, to the Turks Head Tavern in Goshen Township, now known as 
West Chester. The removal was a grevious blow to the people of Ches- 
ter and vicinity, who now began to feel for themselves the inconveniences 
that the former removalists had felt, and a petition was sent to the 
General Assembly praying for relief by the erection of the southeastern 
part of the County into a separate County. 

The Legislature by an Act passed September 26, 1789, authorized a 
division of the County, and directed that all that part of the County of 
Chester now embraced within the limits of the County of Delaware, 
should be erected into a separate County, to be called by that name, and 
Chester was fixed as the County seat. 

In 1845 as stated, a second agitation was begun for the removal of the 
seat of justice of the County from Chester to a more central location, and 
on April 7th, 1848, after an acrimonious discussion by the people, an 
Act was passed by the Legislature, confirming a previous Act passed 
March 3rd, 1847, authorized the removal of the seat of justice lrom the 
Borough of Chester, to the present site in the township of Upper Provi- 
dence. 

On March u, 1850 a Charter was procured from the Legislature creat- 
ing the Borough of Media. 1 he town was laid out by the County Com- 
missioners, and the County buildings erected on that portion of the 
Borough which had been purchased from Sarah Briggs, adjoining the 
County Farm for the support and employment of the Poor, from which 
tract many lots were soon sold. 

On April 6, 1854, an Act of Assembly was passed, authorizing the 
Borough and Town Council to erect water works. These works, origin- 
ally erected on a small stream passing through the western part of the 
Borough, and afterwards changed to the present site on Ridley Creek, 
have under judicious management been greatly improved, so that while 
giving the people of the town a pure and wholesome supply of water, 
are a source of considerable profit. 

The location of the place was judicious. Lying on the high plateau 



34 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

between Ridley and Crum Creeks, the opportunities for natural drainage 
could not be excelled. 

The point was central, the State Road from Philadelphia to Balti- 
more passing through the place gave access by carriage to the people of 
the eastern and western parts of the County, while the Edgmont Great 
Road, one mile to the westward and Providence Great Road, passing 
through the eastern part of the Borough, and both running from the ex- 
treme northern end of the county to Chester, gave access to the inhabi- 
tants ol the northern and southern sections. 

A prominent and distinctive feature of the Charter was a clause pro- 
viding, "That it shall not be lawful lor any person or persons to vend or 
sell vinous, spirituous or other intoxicating liquors within the limits of the 
said Borough except for medical purposes or for use in the Arts ; and it 
shall not be lawful lor the Court of Quarter Sessions to grant any license 
or licenses therefor to any Inn or Tavern within the said Borough." 

The importance of this provision cannot be overestimated. It gave 
assurance to many an unfortunate that here was a haven of security trom 
an uncontrollable appetite — a veritable city of refuge from a remorseless 
pursuer. 

It lias been much criticised, and unsuccessful attempts have been 
made to change it, but it still stands as a part of the organic law and as 
a lasting monument to the unselfish Philanthropy and Christian spirit of 
those whose efforts brought about the result. 

This feature, together with the many natural advantages of the new 
settlement, and the fact that it was the County seat, soon attracted a 
large population and many fine residences were at once erected. 

It has kept up a steady growth, and is now the largest Borough in the 
County. 

The Philadelphia and Baltimore Central Railroad with swift moving 
trains, supplemented by the Delaware County Turnpike Electric Line, 
places the town almost at the door of the City of Philadelphia, while the 
Media and Chester Electric Line makes Chester conveniently near. 

The place contains three Banking Institutions, several fine Halls, a 
Fire Insurance Company, Churches of the leading denominations, one 
Kindergarten and two other good Private Schools, two high grade 
Public Schools, Gas and Electric Light Works, a well equipped and 
efficient Fire Company with steam fire engine, hook and ladder truck, 
hose carriages, a commodious Town Hall, and well paved streets and 
side walks. Uniformed policemen guard the town both day and night, 
and United States Postal Carriers deliver to, and take the mails from the 
doors of the people, who are intelligent sober and industrious, and in the 
main own the houses which they occupy. 

In 1875, the Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the organization of the 
Borough was celebrated by a dinner at the Charter House. At this 
celebration a number of those who were prominent in the organization 
of the town took part, all of whom have passed away. 

To-day we celebrate the Fiftieth Anniversary of the organization. 
Many of those I see before me, have been residents from the inception 
of the Borough, and have witnessed the growth of the place as year by 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 35 

year the settlement unfolded. The residence of many others also here has 
not been so long. All, however, feel a just and honest pride in the town, 
and all open their hearts and homes to those of other places, who have 
honored us with their presence, and to them again we say welcome, 
thrice welcome. 

We trust that the exercises to-day may remain as a pleasant memory 
with all participating, and hope that the next fifty years in the lite of 
the Borough, will be as prosperous, progressive, and conservative as has 
been the past. 



Media's Past. 

Address by A. Lewis Smith. 

When Peter Taylor, upwards of two hundred years ago, bought the 
ground on which we stand to-day, he little surmistd the changes which 
have since converted this part of Penn's wilderness into a charming 
abode of men. That sturdy pioneer had no moie conception 
that his inexpensive acres would some day be the centre of a 
prosperous community than he had ol the coming of the Great 
Republic of which that community is but an unpretentious mem- 
ber. P"or a long time after his day the progress of improvement 
was slow, for the soil hereabouts was not very responsive, and the 
science of farming as we of to-day understand it was unknown ; so that 
the synonym of "Poor Providence" clung to this section long after the 
locality had been made measurably productive. It is not however with- 
in the scope of this paper, nor is my purpose, to trace the annals of the 
people or of the place prior to the beginnings of the well ordered munic- 
ipality whose semi-centennial we have met together to-day to com- 
memorate. Nothing now remains to remind us of the history and 
secluded lives of these early people but the desolate old God's acre, 
located by them on the great highway to Chester and known as Sandy 
Bank Graveyard, with its now quaint and half legible inscriptions and 
thorny and neglected paths. 

Media had no common origin. Unlike most centres of population it 
cannot trace its inception to the cross-roads store, tavern and smithshop. 
On the contrary it came into being like the great neighboring city of 
Philadelphia as the result of a well considered design, that it should be 
the "capital" of a prosperous body politic. 

The agitation which resulted in the removal of the seat of justice of 
Delaware County from Chester had indeed its counterpart in the last 
century, when that town was the county seat ol the large county of the 
same name. As the removal in that case of the public buildings from 
Chester to the Turk's Head (afterwards called West Chester) was strenu- 
ously opposed by the citizens of Chester and its vicinity, and required 
not less than three acts of the legislature, and a contest extending over 
some five years, for its final accomplishment in 1786; so here, the con- 




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SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR ^ 

troversy which began actively in 1845101- the erection of county build- 
ings in a more central and convenient section ol the county than Ches- 
ter, lasted an equal length of time, and required besides, two acts of As- 
sembly, a vote of the people of the county, and a decision of the Supreme 
Court of Pennsylvania to crown it with success. The anti-removalists 
ol 1645 we re no less vehement in their opposition to the change in the 
county seat proposed at that time than their fathers had been in 1785, 
and it may be safely asserted that no political movement which has ever 
occurred in our county has been sustained by organizations better equip- 
ped and better led than those of both the removalists and anti-removal- 
ists of a half century ago. There was no baneful greed for public office 
interwoven with the question at issue to obscure its true merit, and each 
party counted among its leaders the very best and most intelligent 
citizens of the county, by whom the matter was thoroughly discussed in 
all its bearings, especially in the public journals of the day. No prop- 
osition was ever better understood by those who were to pass upon 
it and there is no doubt that the majority of 762 in lavor of removal, out 
of a total vote ot 3132, accurately reflected the preponderance of public 
sentiment upon the question, uninfluenced by any other considerations 
whatever. Let us so believe, and at the same time hope that the result 
which was reached was of no less benefit to the vanquished than to the 
victors. The citizens ol Chester, then numbering less than 1700 souls, 
saw nothing but ruin and disaster in the outcome, but with a population 
which has now grown in number to about 40,000, they have long since 
forgiven and even forgotten the slight put upon their ancient borough 
by the people of the county. 

The immediate cause of the open contest in favor of removal which 
began in 1845, was the necessity that existed for the erection of a new 
jail. The majority of the people of the county were unwilling that the 
public funds should be expended in rebuilding the jail in Chester and in 
thus perpetuating the county seat in a place so inconvenient as that was 
to a large proportion of the inhabitants. The Act of March 3rd, 1847, 
which provided for a submission of the question of removal to a vote of 
the people, enacted that if a majority should vote against removal a new 
jail should be erected in Chester, but if a majority should vote in favor 
of it, the county commissioners were required to fix and determine the 
exact location of the new public buildings, which was not to be more 
"than one-half of a mile from the farm attached to the house for the 
support and employment of the poor" of Delaware county, and not more 
than a half mile from the State road leading from Philadelphia to Palti- 
more, commonly known in those days as the Baltimore pike. The farm 
referred to was a tract of upwards of 150 acres belonging to the county, 
familiarly called the Poor House farm, lying to the eastward and north- 
ward of the present Court House, and which for a period of forty years 
and upwards had been used for the purposes indicated by that title. 

Soon after the decision of the Supreme Court sustaining the constitu- 
tionality of the Removal Act, the County commissioners bought at 
Orphans Court sale from the estate of Richard Briggs a tract of land 
containing about forty-eight acres, of which the farm buildings were 



38 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

those on State street afterwards occupied for many years by the late Dr. 
Joseph Rowland, and upon it they located this Court House square in 
which we are to-day. The deed to the county was dated June 28, 1849. 
Although the Act conferring authority on the county commissioners 
only extended to the locating of the new public buildings, yet so firmly 
had the notion become settled in their minds, as well as in the minds of 
the entire community, that these buildings were to become at once the 
nucleus of a considerable urban population, that when these gentlemen 
laid out streets throughout the tract and subdivided it into building lots 
to be resold by them with an "unearned increment" added to the value, 
no one questioned their authority to conduct this speculative scheme. 
It will be borne in mind that the borough of Media was not incorporat- 
ed until the following spring, yet these commissioners proceeded to 
cause a survey and plan of their purchase to be made by two reputable 
surveyors, Joseph Fox and Josiah Hibberd, which purported to establish 
not only the streets of the prospective town, but the grades and house 
lines as well. This plan is now disposited in the office of the Prothono- 
tary of the Court of Common Pleas in the Court House. It is attested 
by the signatures of the surveyors just named and of the commissioners 
themselves, and bears date September 3, 1849. Oddly enough it is 
entitled "Plan of the first division of the survey and regulations of the 
borough of Media, the seat of Justice of Delaware County, Pennsylvania." 
It is therefore manifest that our borough was well under way at least 
six months before it was incorporated, and that its responsible promo- 
ter at that time was the County of Delaware as represented by its board 
of Commissioners. 

The location selected by the commissioners was believed to be near 
the centre of the county. It was certainly centrally placed as respects 
three of the ancient land-marks of the county, the Rose Tree Hotel to 
the north, the Providence Inn to the east, and the Black Horse Tavern 
to the w r est, each one of which had its earnest advocates in favour of 
making it the focus of the new town. 

The main highways through the proposed borough were the Provi- 
dence Road and the State Road which intersected each other at the 
east end of the present Washington street. The State Road which ex- 
tended from that place in a northwestwardly direction to a point west of 
the house of an old resident, named John Way, on State street, near 
Jackson, whence it corresponded very nearly with the present 
line of State street as far west as Lemon street, where it 
diverged in a southwestwardly direction, has been vacated wherever it 
did not coincide with the streets laid down on the plan, but its location 
may still be traced by indications on the ground. The Providence Inn, 
the only one of the three just named loeated within the borough limits, 
was situated at the junction of those two roads and was owned and kept 
by Peter Worrall, Jr. It had been a licensed hostelry from a very early 
period, (originally under the name of the Anvil), but upon the incorpora- 
tion of the borough it lost its license, and has since been remodeled 
and occupied as a private boarding house. 

Two weeks after the adoption of this plan the commissioners held their 
first public sale of lots laid out in accordance with their survey, and so 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 39 

keen was the public interest in the founding of the new town that the 
result surpassed all expectations. The total sum realized from the sale 
of only a portion of the 200 lots laid out by the commissioners was al- 
most equal to the cost to the county of the entire Briggs tract. The 
first deed on record for any of these lots was that to John C. Beatty, 
dated November 6, 1849 and recorded on the same day. It conveyed 
to Mr. Beatty the lot located at the northeast corner of State street and 
South avenue, containing in fronton State street, 105 feet and in depth 
along South avenue 100 feet to Jasper street. The price was $367.50. 
The same lot would probably now be worth $ 1 0,000. The lot on the 
other side of South avenue of the same size, being that on which the 
Charter House now stands, was sold to Daniel T. Hawkins and the 
consideration paid for that lot and a 20 foot lot on Third street, convey- 
ed by the same deed was $240. Three contiguous lots on the south 
side of Front street opposite the Court House Square having an aggre- 
gate front of 60 feet and extending in depth 150 feet to Jasper street 
were purchased by Jacob Smedley for $180. Two others on Olive St., 
opposite the middle of the square with a frontage of 40 feet and a depth 
of 175 feet to Plum street, brought Si 24, and a lot with the same front- 
age and a depth of 125 feet at the southeast corner of Front and Olive 
streets, afterwards built on by Charles D, Manley, brought $105. 
Other lots brought varying prices according to location, some of them 
as low as $30 each. Many of the best citizens of the county attended 
the two sales held by the commissioners, and became competitors in the 
bidding — not a few of them with the intention of building sooner or 
later, and others with a view to holding as an investment merely. 

Notwithstanding that the plan adopted by the county described this 
ground as located in the Borough of Media, the commissioners in the 
deeds executed by them to the purchasers uniformly described the lots 
conveyed as located in the "Town of Providence," and this whether the 
deeds were executed before or after the incorporation of the borough. 
Providence was the name, by which it had been decided after much dis- 
cussion that the incipient town was to be called, until the charter settled 
it otherwise. 

The actual incorporation of the borough was effected by a long Act 
of Assembly approved on the eleventh of March, 1850, whereby the 
inhabitants residing within the limits particularly set forth in the Act, 
and which contained about 520 acres, were erected into "a body politic 
in fact and in law under the name and title of The Burgess and Town 
Council of the Borough of Media." "Thirty-three sections of this Act 
provided in great detail ample powers for the government of the munic- 
ipality at that time and expressly confirmed the plan of survey of Sept. 
3, 1849 (which although approved by the commissioners can hardly be 
said, prior to this Act, to have had legal sanction), and enacted that all 
the streets, lanes, alleys and roads laid down and marked on it should 
be deemed, judged and taken to the public highways, as well as those 
within the borough limits laid out or designated on plans or plots by 
any persons who had laid out streets or roads other than those 
on the commissioner's plan. This last provision was undoubtedly in- 



40 SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

tended in the main for that large part of the borough south of State 
street, then principally owned by John Hill, but which soon passed into 
the ownership of H. Jones Brooke, a well known and public spirited 
resident of Radnor township, who removed to the property so purchased 
by him, and for many years took a leading part not only in the affairs of 
the borough, but in those of the count}- and the Commonwealth also. 
But the unique feature of this charter, and one that distinguished it from 
that of any other in the State of Pennsylvania, was its 34th section, 
which provides that it shall not be lawful for any person to sell intoxi- 
cating liquors within the borough limits except for medicinal purposes 
or for use in the arts under penalty of indictment and fine ; and further 
that it shall not be lawful for the Court of Quarter Sessions to grant a 
license for such sale to any inn or tavern within the borough. This pro- 
vision was the result of the direct and vigorous efforts of a large num- 
ber of the most prominent citizens of the county, many of whom were 
active members of a strong organization known as the Sons of Temper- 
ance. These men impressed by the disastrous effects of the habits 
of intemperance which had prevailed in years past, and against 
which the numerous temperance societies established throughout 
the county at this time constituted the natural reaction, thought to give 
ocular proof of the value of their principles by providing that in one 
community at least the open sale of intoxicating drinks should be forever 
forbidden. The effect of this provision has been much discussed and it 
has even been maintained by some that this feature of our charter has 
been a drawback upon the prosperity of the town, but I fancy that a 
large majority of our citizens are satisfied that the experiment of a half 
century ago has ripened into demonstration that it has been no less ben- 
eficial than successful in its operation, and that the prosperity which a 
backward step would now bring is not of the kind that would make for 
happiness either in their hearts or their homes. 

However well planned it may be, the growth of a new community is 
in the nature of things slow. The foundations of Media had been laid 
deep and strong, but the wilderness cannot be made to blossom in a day. 
Besides the old Friend's Meeting House on Providence Road and the 
dozen or so of other buildings within the verge of the new town at the 
time of its incorporation, there was nothing but the most rural of aspects 
in every direction. When the commissioners in the autumn of 
1849, invited the citizens of the county to be present at their first 
sale of lots, the place selected for holding the sale was in a corn field 
on the north side of the State road, about where the Charter House 
now stands. In order to make room for the numerous vehicles of 
those who came from far and near to attend the sale, it was necessary 
to remove quite a number of shocks of the recently cut corn from 
that part of the field. The town had been set down as it were in the 
open fields — its few residents comparative strangers to each other and 
still greater strangers to the work of building up a municipal body 
which should develop wisdom and strength in promoting the common 
welfare, and the individual happiness of its citizens. So few were its 
residents competent to serve in the Borough Council at the time of 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 4j 

the first election of members that some of them were chosen from be- 
yond the borough limits. 

It was almost exactly two years from the date, when the location of 
the new public buildings was fixed upon, to the date of their completion 
in May, 185 I — when the Court House was ready to receive the public 
records and the jail its prisoners. If the present Court House 
were shorn of its wings, and of the extension on the rear, which em- 
braces the present offices of the Recorder of Deeds and Register of 
Wills, you would have substantially the Court House, as it was at that 
time and as it remained until the year 1871, when the first extensions were 
made. The court room was smaller than at present, a corridor extend- 
ing across the second story front, above which was a gallery opening 
into the court room. The front of the jail, including what is known as 
the Sheriffs house, remains essentially as it was when completed, but 
the part devoted to the detention of convicts has been from time to time 
improved and extended, so that it now conforms to the standards of the 
best regulated penal institutions, both in capacity and internal arrange- 
ment. A curious feature of the plan of Media, prepared by the com- 
missioners, to which I have referred, is that on it was laid out the Court 
House Square, being a plot of ground 500 feet long by 240 feet wide, 
bounded by streets, and a plot at the southwest corner of Front and 
Orange streets, intended for a public market, but no ground was allotted 
on it for the erection of a jail. The explanation of this is that it was at 
first intended to erect the jail in the northwest section of the Court 
House Square, and it has come down to us as reliable tradition, that a 
cellar for the building was actually dug there before the commissioners 
were brought to realize the inappropriateness of the location. The result 
was that they located the jail where it now stands, and when it was sub- 
sequently extended it became necessary for them to repurchase some of 
the lots which the}- had previously sold. The public market allotment 
was afterward sold to private parties, who have always devoted it to the 
purposes for which it was intended. Much remained to be done after 
the acceptance of the public buildings from the contractors, both out- 
side and in. The enclosing of the Court House Square and the paving 
around it — no unimportant matters — were still under way and a cor- 
responding condition of incompleteness appeared in many directions. 
The highways were unpaved — there were no public lights, and no water 
supply, except from wells. Main- who are yet living, will recall the de- 
plorable condition of the streets in the winter and spring months, not 
only at the time I refer to, but for several years later. As late as 1866, 
the only artificial pathway along the country road, called by courtesy 
Orange street, between Washington street and the railroad station, was 
one sidewalk, consisting of three boards in width laid end to end, and 
frequently out of place. You may imagine that with no gas to light 
him at night, and such pit falls in his path, there was less temptation 
than now for the average citizen to frequent the late trains. 

The first session of Court in Media, was held on the fourth Monday 
in August, 1 85 1. A great crowd was in attendance. The court room 
although smaller than at present seemed in comparison with the old 
one at Chester, large and commodious. Judge Henry Chapman pre- 



42 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

sided and, happening to be present, I well remember the remarks in which 
that dignified and much respected jurist complimented the citizens of 
the count}- upon coming into possession of their new and beautiful 
Court House. It was also a great step from the contracted and crowded 
quarters in Chester to the fire-proof offices in the new Court House. The 
first floor of the building was divided into separate offices about twenty 
feet square, each one corresponding in size with the quadrilateral arches 
which may now be observed in the ceiling of the prothonotary's office. 
The present office of the prothonotary alone consists of three of these 
smaller rooms thrown into one. And yet at that period all of the 
county offices of Prothonotary, Clerk of the Quarter Sessions, Clerk of 



CHARTER HOUSE IN 1855. 

the Orphans' Court, Recorder of Deeds and Register of Wills, were held 
by one incumbent and he kept all of the records of these several offices 
in two of those small rooms ; the others, except those occupied by the 
County Commissioners and the Sheriff being rented to lawyers for use 
as their private offices. Nothing could better illustrate the growth of 
Media between that day and the present than the analagous develop- 
ment of the accommodations in and about this Court House, made dur- 
ing the same period to meet the growing public needs. 

It would be impossible in the time allotted me to give a detailed ac- 
count of the buildings erected in these early years of the life of the 
borough. The very first was the large brick store built by John C. 
Beatty on the lot purchased by him from the count}' at the corner of 
State street and South avenue, now temporarily occupied by the First 
National Bank of Media pending the erection of its new banking house 



Semi-centennial souvenir 43 

opposite. It was begun in 1849 and completed before the borough was 
incorporated in 1850. Although now somewhat dwarfed by comparison 
with larger and more ornate buildings near by, it was considered at the 
time a most imposing structure and it is well within the limits of truth to 
say that the other buildings erected by the founders of the town were of 
the same substantial kind, and that these early enterprises gave that char- 
acter and direction in the future development of the place which have 
made our borough what you see it to-day, a most attractive and in- 
viting place of residence. The Charter House Association organized in 
1850 to build a hotel to be conducted upon principles in harmony with 
the 34th section of the Charter and composed mainly of the same prom- 
inent citizens who had secured the enactment of that section, pushed 
their project forward with such vigor that by the middle of 185 1 the 
hotel was finished and rented to D. Reece Hawkins, who for twenty 
years thereafter (with short interruptions) conducted it as a living dem- 
onstration that the public can be acceptably accommodated without 
the adjunct of a bar for the sale of intoxicating drinks — a demonstration 
continued by his successors to the present day. 

The early building operations were carried on with such energy that 
within three years there were fifty-seven new dwelling houses completed, 
making the total number in the town, including the old farm houses, 
about seventy, and the total number of buildings of all kinds ninety- 
four, being more than the number in Chester at the end of the first cen- 
tury and a half of its existence. 

It must be remembered that at this time the railroad from Philadelphia 
had not yet been completed to Media, and that only public method of 
conveyance to and from the town was by the stage line to Chester es- 
tablished by that pioneer liveryman, Wessel C. Brodhead, and an inter- 
mittent line to Howellville. 

According to that industrious chronicler of our local history, Mr. 
Ashmead, there were in the town in 1853 two stores which combined 
the sale of dry goods and groceries, a shoe store, a trimming store, a 
drug store and an inn, a printing office, a post office and a schoolhouse, 
and the tradesmen who carried on business here included two tailors, 
three blacksmiths, one wheelwright, one coachmaker, one tinsmith, 
one saddler, one stonecutter, one bricklayer, one stonemason, two 
painters, two cabinet makers, three carpenters, one plasterer and one 
butcher, while the learned professions were represented by five lawyers, 
three physicians and one dentist. The senior among the members of 
the Bar at that time was Edward Darlington, Esq., who had moved his 
office from Chester to Media about the time the records were brought, 
and who continued in the active practice of his profession here until his 
advancing years enforced his retirement from its exacting duties. He 
had represented this district in Congress for two terms during the excit- 
ing times when the secession idea was taking form under the guidance 
of Calhoun, and was brought into contact with all the great men who 
then took part in our national affairs. It was my privilege to know him 
well, and it is my pleasure now to testify to the respect in which he was 
held by the citizens of this county as a conscientious and safe counsellor 
and a sincere, earnest and able advocate. Not less well known and 



44 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

widely esteemed was Dr. Joseph Rowland, who for upwards of fifty years 
was the genial and beloved physician and friend of great numbers o 
families both within and without the borough. Of his fidelity in thef 
practice of his profession it gratifies me to be able also to speak from 
personal knowledge. In the next year, 1854, John C. Beatty, who had 
displayed much enterprise in promoting the interests of the borough in 
man)' directions, purchased forty-six acres of the southern part of the 
Poor House farm for $250 per acre, and by sub-dividing it into lots, 
which were offered for sale to the public after having himself erected 
several substantial buildings, he gave a marked impetus to the growth of 
that part of the town. 

The year 1854 also brought the railroad, and with it increased energy 
in many directions. The corner stones of the Methodist and Presbyte- 
rian Church buildings were laid and the latter building was completed 
the next year. Thomas Griffith opened a private school in the second 
story of the large store building erected by Isaac Haldeman at the cor- 
ner of State and Olive streets in which school Ex-Senator William Henry 
Sutton of Montgomery County was for a short time employed as a 
teacher. Rev. Samuel W. Gayley also established a boarding school 
for boys and continued its successful operation until his death. The 
office of County Superintendent of Schools was established in 1854, and 
teachers' institutes were held in Media semi-annually during the next 
succeeding six years, since which time they have been held here annu- 
ally. The extension of the public school system to Media as a separate 
school district was not, however, effected until the year 1 856. Prior to 
that a small brick school house had been built and in that year a some- 
what larger frame building was erected for the same purpose. A year 
later Joseph Addison Thomson was appointed a teacher. In 1859 the 
present site of the public school house on Olive street was purchased 
and on it was erected a brick building then thought to be ample for the 
purpose, but which was replaced by one much larger in 1883, and this 
in its turn being found inadequate, has been remodeled and enlarged 
into the commodious structure which you see there to-day; and the pub- 
lic necessities have been still further responded to by the erection of a 
large additional school building in the eastern part of the borough. 

On January 1st, 1874, the present constitution of Pennsylvania went 
into effect, one of the provisions of which made women eligible to any 
position of management or control under the school laws of the State, 
and it is worthy of commemoration that the school district of Media 
was the first in the county and probably in the Commonwealth to avail 
itself of this privilege by choosing as a member of the board Mrs. Mai- 
vina Fairlamb of this borough. 

Coincident with the establishment of Media as a school district, was 
the erection of that famous school for young ladies, Brooke Hall Female 
Seminary, which under the efficient management of its principal, Miss 
Eastman and her corps of teachers, extending over a period of 33 years 
attracted pupils from far and wide. The wife of the President of the 
United States is one who bears in kindly remembrance the pleasant and 
instructive days passed by her at this institution. Other schools of merit 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 45 

were established at later dates, but it is beyond my province to give a 
detailed account of then. I may mention, however, the Media Academy, 
founded in 1872, by Miss Anna Mary Walter (now Mrs. Thomas H. 
Speakman,) and which she relinquished after many years of successful 
administration, to become a techer, and later on principal of the Girls' 
Department of Friends' Central School, at Fifteenth and Race streets, in 
Philadelphia ; also the well-equipped boarding school, conducted at the 
Haldeman House, established in 1874 by S. C. Shortlidge, and two day 
schools under the charge of Friends. 

The public water works were inaugurated in 1855, but only in a mod- 
est way. They were built under contract by Joseph Strode, and the 
power employed for forcing up water, consisted of a hydraulic ram of 
extraordinary size — as I am reliably informed, one of the only two of that 
size ever constructed — located on the small stream now called Broomall's 
run. A steam engine subsequently took the place of the ram for the 
purpose of increasing the supply. Since then the sources of supply 
and facilities for the distribution of water have been enlarged and in- 
creased from time to time, until now the borough has a pardonable pride 
in the abundance and purity of this indispensable adjunct to the godli- 
ness of its people. 

In the same year (1855) was established the Delaware County Ameri- 
can, a weekly journal well known to all of us. It had of course its 
early struggles, and although there have been some changes in its 
ownership, these have not affected its relations to the pubic and it has now 
attained a position not only of stability but of marked influence in the 
community. Except during a period of less than three years it was 
the only newspaper successfully published in Media until the year 1876, 
when the Delaware County Record came into existence. This journal 
too, has survived the early struggles incident to all journalistic enter- 
prises, but these have not deterred the establishment of a third competi- 
tor for public favor, the Media Ledger, now safely past its ninth year of 
probation. 

In 1858, the corner stone was laid of the Protestant Episcopal Church, 
on Orange street, and it was consecrated about two years later as Christ 
Church. Notwithstanding the delay in erecting this building, the re- 
ligious body which worships there" had maintained an organization from 
early in 1853, meeting sometimes in the Court House and occasionally 
in the Methodist Church. Somewhat later, came the Roman Catholic 
Church building (now used as a Sunday School room,) on Franklin 
street, which has since been superseded by a much larger and more 
commodious edifice. In 1872, a Baptist Church was erected at Third 
and Jackson streets, and in 1875, a Friends' Meeting House on Third 
street at the north end of North avenue. 

An institution closely associated from the date of its organization in 
September, 1852, up to the present time, with the history of the bor- 
ough, is the Delaware County Mutual Insurance Company. The steady 
increase in the business of this corporation has had a corresponding 
growth in the confidence of the community, and it is to-day regarded as 
one of the staunchest corporate bodies in the county. It goes without 
saying, that it has been of great advantage to our borough to have it with 



46 SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

us, and especially to have it erect as its permanent home, the neat and 
attractive building at the corner of Front street and South avenue, in 
which office it has since 1873 been located. Another early institution, 
which had no small share in promoting" the prosperity of the town, was 
the Media Loan and Building Association, organized in 1854. Its pru- 
dent management trave it an enviable character for stabilitv, and this in 
turn, was reflected most advantageously in furthering the spread of im- 
provements. This character has been maintained by its successor up 
to the present time. 

The picturesque location of our town at an elevation of from two 
hundred and fifty to three hundred feet above tide has given it a deserv- 
ed reputation as an attractive and healthful summer resort. Towards 
maintaining this reputation the Chestnut Grove Honse erected by Mr. 
Brooke soon after the opening of the railroad, and later on, Idlewild, 
erected by D. Reese Hawkins, and the Haldeman House by I. Lawrence 
Haldeman have been valuable contributions. An incident connected 
with the history of the Chestnut Grove House was its occupancy by 
Swarthmore College during the year after the disastrous fire in 1881, 
which destroyed the main College building. 

The decade commencing with the year i860 and embracing the period 
of the Civil War witnessed a very decided progress in the material ad- 
vancement of the borough. The First National Bank, now one of the 
most successful in the United States, was organized in 1864 and located 
in the second story of the Haldeman building at the corner of State and 
Olive streets. After six years of prudent and careful management it 
was removed to the corner of State street and South avenue, where it 
has since remained, gradually acquiring in a quiet way that financial 
strength which is reflected in the government reports and in the price of 
its shares. Its new bank building now nearly completed on this site is 
pre-eminent alike for its fitness and beauty of design. 

The extension of banking requirements has of late years called into 
being two additional moneyed institutions, the Charter National Bank 
and The Media Title and Trust Company, both well patronized and re- 
garded with favor by our citizens. 

In 1867 the Delaware County Institute of Science which had been or- 
ganized a generation before, erected a new building on South avenue 
and moved there from its old quarters near the Rose Tree. It has al- 
ways exercised a salutary influence among our people in promoting the 
spread of information on scientific and kindred subjects, none the less 
effective because of its quiet and unostentatious methods of freely dis- 
seminating instruction along its special lines of inquiry. 

During the period under consideration large expenditures were made 
in improving the streets, and several new dwelling houses were erected. 
The business of the town expanded materially both in its extent and va- 
riety, and this movement has now ripened and borne fruit in the various 
admirable enterprises of our merchants of to-day. Not only are we lib- 
erally supplied with every necessity and every comfort for domestic use, 
but we have those among us who can and do furnish both ourselves and 
residents of the surrounding country with materials of every kind nec- 
essary for the erection and ornamentation of homes, and we have besides 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 47 

expert mechanics adequate to any undertaking. Our markets, too, are 
well and abundantly supplied with every necessity and with all the lux- 
uries that it is well for any people to have. 

The circumstance which contributed more than any other to invigo- 
rate the spirit of improvement in our town, was the purchase and sub- 
division of the Poor House farm in 1871. This large body of land 
which hemmed in the improved sections of the borough on the north 
and east remained intact, except the southern part of it, which had been 
conveyed to John C. Beatty as before mentioned, and some detached 
lots. The remainder was sold at public sale in one body by the Directors 
of the Poor in the autumn of 1855. In the ensuing spring it was con- 
veyed to the purchaser, David Milne of Phila., who also acquired some ad- 



& Br "- h1 ^ *IISiMl^^ 






OLD SOUTH AVENUE ROW. 



joining tracts, and then conveyed the whole, amounting to 141 acres, to 
his two sons. None of these owners opened up the property or put it 
to any practical use. The old county house, a large stone building 100 
feet long, located where the Haldeman House now stands, was rented 
out to a number of families, mostly colored, and from this fact acquired 
the soubriquet of The Continental, by which it was known for many 
years. At first the assessment of this land for taxation was low, but it 
was gradually increased until it stood for the year 1 870 at $27,700. 
The valuation was then abruptly increased for the year 1871 to $75,000 
and the owners promptly appealed from the assessment to the Commis- 
sioners, protesting that this was more than the property would bring at 
a fair sale. The late John M. Broomall happened to be standing by 
when the appeal was being heard and said to Mr. Milne that if he would 
take the amount at which it was assessed, he (Mr. Broomall) thought he 
could find a purchaser for the property. Mr. Milne expressing his will- 



48 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

ingness to sell at that figure, Mr. Broomall started in quest of others 
who would be willing to join him in the purchase. In assuming this at- 
titude, Mr. Broomall was not acting altogether unadvisedly. He, as well 
as certain other public spirited citizens, had often chafed because the ex- 
tension of improvements over the best land within the borough limits 
had been effectually blocked by the impassable barrier which for years 
was presented by this large holding, and some of them had from time to 
time conferred together as to the possibility of acquiring it upon terms 
that would warrant the risk of such a large undertaking. In less than 
an hour, as the story goes, Mr. Broomall had secured the formation of a 
small syndicate ready and indeed anxious to secure the property at the 
figure named, and the bargain was soon closed. Besides Mr. Broomall 
the syndicate was composed of Edward A. Price, Esq., to whom the title 
was conveyed, and Messrs. Thomas J. Haldeman and I. Lawrence Hal- 
deman. Of these Mr. Price is the sole survivor, and we are glad to have 
him taking part in to-day's exercises. Immediately after the survey and 
division of this land into lots these gentlemen exposed large numbers of 
the lots at public sale with a most gratifying result. Tney also made a 
division of certain lots among themselves with an agreement that they 
would respectively erect a number of dwelling houses thereon for the 
purpose of stimulating others to build, and this contract was substan- 
tially carried out. The result of this operation was appreciable from the 
first in opening up eligible sites for building purposes, and later on its 
effect in expanding the improved portions of the borough to the north- 
ward and eastward has been quite marvelous. 

A matter of interest worthy of remembrance in connection with this 
purchase, is the direct and important bearing it had upon securing for the 
borough its present source of supply of water, and the improvement and 
extension of the water works. Water was then taken, as has been stated, 
from the small stream, now called Broomall's run. Immediately after the 
purchase, these gentlemen, finding that this supply was or would soon 
be inadequate to meet the necessities incident to their enterprise, pur- 
chased from Lewis Palmer, the mill and water power on Ridley Creek, 
formerly owned by Wm. L. Lewis, the title being taken as before by 
Mr. Price. Steps were at once taken to install a plant and lay pipes 
therefrom, in order to obtain a supply of water which would be inde- 
pendent of the borough system. A strong public sentiment was aroused 
by this action, as it now became apparent that the borough would in the 
course of time, need a larger supply of water than it was then get- 
ting, and a town meeting was held in the Court House, for the purpose 
of considering the subject. After considerable discussion, a resolution 
was passed, recommending that the council purchase from the syndicate 
this water power, which had been offered to the borough at cost. After 
an analysis had been made, under the direction of council, showing the 
water to be suitable for drinking and domestic purposes, the offer was 
accepted, and new works were erected, under the supervision of Isaac S. 
Cassin, as engineer. 

The borough thus acquired at moderate cost, an assured source of 
supply of water of excellent quality, adequate for many years to come. 
The significance of this cannot be too highly appreciated, especially 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 49 

when our rates are contrasted with those of some of our neighbors 
throughtout the country, who get their supply from other sources and 
have no better water at rates less favorable. 

Since then the progress of the town has been steady, not only to the east 
and north, but to the south and west as well. Many new and handsome 
dwellings have been erected, an electric light plant installed, the streets 
improved, and the main thoroughfares relaid with modern pavements of 
the best quaility, a steam fire engine and hook and ladder truck pur- 
chased, and a new and beautiful town hall erected. Nor has our social 
development been neglected. Beside the church guilds and other semi- 
social bodies we have at least three clubs, two of men and one of women. 
Of the former one is purely social and owns the handsome club house 
erected by it at the corner of Washington street and South avenue. The 
other is political. The Women's Club of Media, has for its object the 
furtherance of all good works, and its motto "labor omnia vincit," forci- 
bly expresses both the method and the results of the combined efforts of 
its members for social and educational advancement. 

Of the lounders of Media there is but one left among us. I have al- 
ready refered to some of those who took an active part in shaping its 
destinies at the beginning and in promoting its growth and welfare after- 
wards. Of the others, Isaac Haldeman had a conspicuous part. Al- 
ready 52 years of age and ten years a resident merchant here before the 
borough was created, he served 18 years in its council, of which he was 
president, always with an eye single to its welfare, and with the same 
fidelity to its interests which he ever manifested in his private affairs. 
Soon after the incorporation of the borough, he erected the large double 
brick store and dwelling at the northwest corner of State and Olive Sts., 
and removed his business to that place from its former location on the 
property now owned by Dr. Stellwagen. He was the first president of 
the First National Bank, and continued to serve in that capacity until his 
death in 1878. He has left an honored name intimately associated 
with the history and well being of the borough. 

Charles D. Manley, first borough solicitor and second Burgess of 
Media, moved here from Chester in 185 1. He was also a representative 
in the Legislature during one term, and served two terms in the borough 
council. His clear and conservative views were always of service in the 
exercise of his official duties, and at all times his genial temperament 
made approach to him for the purpose of getting his advise on public 
affairs easy and pleasant. 

Jacob Smedley first borough surveyor and Nathan Shaw who served 
in the first council were both men of sterling worth and unblemished 
reputation Ralph Buckley too who came somewhat later was one of 
our most enterprising citizens and did much good work in furthering the 
growth of the borough. 

Two other well known and respected citizens of the town, Samuel 
P. Rush and Willian Seal are among the few survivors of its very first 
residents. Of their fidelity to the duties of citizenship it is unnecessary 
to speak to this audience. 

It is not however my intention to write a biography of the men who 



SO SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

laid the ground work of the borough. But there is one of them still with 
us who has been so intimately associated with its history from the very 
start that any account of it would be incomplete which should omit his 
name from the record, although his modesty may cause him to shrink 
from any allusion to him on this occasion. I refer to Charles R. Wil- 
liamson. Mr. Williamson in 1850 secured two lots at the southeast 
corner of Front and Orange streets and immediately set about the erec- 
tion on them of a large double brick dwelling house and store which 
at that time was considered a most imposing structure. He moved there 
in 1 85 I, and carried on his business at that place for many years. No 
one man has had more to do with shaping the life and activities of the 
borough than he. He served in the borough council from March 5; 1 85 I 
to March 7, 1887, a period of thirty-six consecutive years and was its 
president during the last nineteen years of that time. He also served 
three years and upwards as postmaster, and resigned that position to be- 
come county Treasurer. In 1863, he was appointed an associate Judge 
of the County courts, for the unexpired term of Judge Hinkson. He has 
been a director of both the Delaware County Mutual Insurance Com- 
pany, and of the First National Bank, from their respective formation to 
the present time. These facts attest with greater emphasis than any 
words I could use, that he has always gone hand in hand with our munic- 
ipal progress and has had a longer and more prominent part in the 
faithful service of his fellow citizens of Media than any other living man. 

Media has also had its share of quaint characters. Some of you have 
doubtless heard a story which has come down to us of one of our early 
settlers who received an appointment as tipstaff of the court. On 
one occasion during a discussion on some point of law the 
Judge told this official to go and bring Purdon. The tipstaff de- 
parted on his errand. After a considerable absence he returned 
in a state of breathlessness and agitation and reported to the Court that 
he had hunted through all the offices and in and about the Court House, 
but could not find Mr. Purdon- This explanation so disturbed the grav- 
ity of the Court and of the members of the Bar that some time elapsed 
before it could be explained to the embarrassed official that it was not a 
delinquent citizen who was wanted, but only that legal classic called 
Purdon's Digest. 

In all that goes to make up a progressive yet conservative municipal 
and social organization the borough of Media is now fully abreast of any 
other community of its kind in the State. The late Burgess, in his ad- 
dress when retiring from office, referring to the borough government, 
said that the members of its councils have always been men of affairs. 
Certain it is that its affairs have been so managed and the conditions 
have been such that we may assume as logical results our many advan- 
tages, and chief among them our moderate tax rate and our adequate 
supply of pure water at a low charge. Adding to these our unrivalled 
situation, well improved streets lighted by electricity, and guarded by 
policemen, frequent trains in both directions, two trolley lines, telegraph 
and telephone connections, gas, a steam fire engine and appliances, ex- 
cellent postal arrangements, a great variety of stores and business places, 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 5 I 

well supplied markets, abundance of schools of all grades, and churches 
of all the leading denominations, we should continue to be a happy, con- 
tented and prosperous people. 

Not less important than these material advantages is the fact that our 
citizens mainly own the houses in which they live, that these homes have 

become centres of intellectual activity — of reading and thinking of 

discussion of the thoughts of others gleaned from books or from the 
daily press — or heard in the church or the lecture room. I speak not of 
the wealthy alone but of the great army of producers — the backbone of 
every community and of every Commonwealth. 

It is the broadening and manifolding ol this idea of home that distin- 
guishes the people of to-day from their ancestors of two centuries ago. 
Few of that time owned or ever hoped to own the houses that shielded 
them and theirs from the summer sun or winter's cold. Now there is no 
self-respecting man, however humble, who does not long for and cherish 
the hope that sooner or later he will possess the dwelling place of him- 
self and his family. If he succeeds, he seeks to have it located where 
there will be neighbors and friends. He desires that both he and his 
shall be part and parcel of the community in which they dwell. The 
law of segregation which prevailed in the olden time no longer obtams. 
The idea that each man's house shall be his castle still holds its place 
but not in the sense that it once had. It no longer suggests attack and 
defence, serfdom and vassalage, rapine and slaughter, with all their dis- 
tressful concomitants, but rather the hospitable entertainment of friends 
and neighbors, the commingling with those about us and the playful in- 
tercourse of children. The dwelling place must now be convenient to 
the church and the school. But above all it must contain within itself 
the forms and appliances which the experience of our friends and neigh- 
bors suggests for the comfort of our family and foi convenient associa- 
tion with others. Every modern-built residence, be it manor house or 
cottage, has its best room and its best furnished room dedicated exclu- 
sively to the exercise of social functions, to the hospitable entertainment 
of friends, to the daily mingling of men and women in all the varied 
forms of genial intercourse — contrasting strongly with the habits and 
customs of two centuries ago. Men of all classes are now closer to each 
other than formerly, and that which affects one concerns the whole. 
Each one by reason of the force of his surroundings in these modern 
times of material and intellectual activity has unconsciously become a 
member of the entire community in which he lives, with a humane in- 
terest in and regard for all. Certain visionary progagandists call this a 
tendency towards socialism and rejoice that their dreams of a universaf 
brotherhood may some day be fulfilled. Perhaps it is so, but that end is 
not yet. Like the "adaptation" of species to a new environment, which 
the biologists tell us about, the ambition and personality of the individual 
man may in the course of vast stretches of time become subjected to and 
fused in the will of the general mass, but if that is to be so, the evolution 
is so distant that we need take no thought respecting it to-day. There 
is no doubt however that this gravitating of the human race has devel- 
oped certain socialistic institutions among us, and startling as it may 



52 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

seem to those who have not given thought to the subject — and especi- 
ally to those who are frightened by the sound of the word, two of our 
best conducted and most valued institutions are purely and absolutely 
socialistic in their origin and development — institutions more closely 
interwoven with the lives, habits and daily experience of our citizens 
than any other ; institutions, the blotting out of which would spread a 
pall over the entire land, and bring dismay to every household. 1 refer 
to the post office and to the common school. If analyzed it will be seen 
that each of them contributes its benefits equally to every citizen and 
that neither of them contains any element of individual enterprise. 
Both are managed by and at the charge of the State only, and tor the 
equal benefit of all its citizens. In the century just closing and more es- 
pecially in the half century covered by the life of this borough, the devel- 
opment and growth of these two systems has been prodigious and there 
is none among us who would subtract from their beneficent operation 
in any degree whatever, or who expects aught than the continued in- 
crease of their benefactions. Our "adaptation," — by no means perfect at 
first. — to these crystallizations of human thought, has become so, and an- 
other half century, which may well be within the experience of some 
who hear me to-day may witness other emanations of the social order 
which will be equally beneficial and equally welcome. 

It is not for me however to cast our horoscope. I am not an astrolog- 
er much less a prophet. The province of divining our future has been 
assigned to One whose inspiration as a seer will be aided by His wisdom 
and long experience in dealing with men and their affairs. Albeit I will 
venture to predict that He may tell us this much ; if we pursue the good 
with all our might and eschew the evil, if we do the things we ought to 
do and avoid the things we ought not todo we shall continue to prosper, but 
if we depart from the straigh forward course marked out by our own ex- 
perience in the past, and by our own sen c e of rectitude, while we may 
still flourishfor a time, it will be with us as with the wicked man in 
power who spreads himself like a green-bay tree, but soon passes away, 
and when sought for is not found. 



riedia's Future. 

Address of Col. A. K. McClure. 

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: — 

There is eminent fitness in the popular celebration of the semi-centen- 
nial of your county seat. It is the fountain of order, of protection to 
person and property and of the general good gcvernment of your com- 
munity. Here is the temple of justice ; here is the sanctuary of the law, 
and here all look to the beneficent power of our free government that 
maintains the rights of the humblest citizen. 

I well remember the earnest and bitter contest made for the removal 
of your county seat. Like all such local conflicts it called out the most 
intense asperities because it involved a vast measure of individual inter- 
est. Next to church and family quarrels, local disputes about the divi- 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 53 

sion of counties and the location of county seats are among the most 
difficult to reconcile. It seems grotesque, looking back a century or 
more from the standpoint of the present, to find the venerable city of 
Chester on the extreme southern line ol the county bringing the pec pie 
of what are now Delaware and Chester counties to that county seat lor 
the transaction of all legal business. 

The first rift in the harmony lute was long and jarring, and resulted in 
the creation oi a new county, and that was followed by the protracted 
agitation for a more central county seat in Delaware The people of your 
county seemed to take the practical and utilitarian idea of locating their 
temple of justice They decided to locate it in the center of the com- 
munity, and that center was literally and scientifically ascertained, but 
unfortunately it would have planted the county seat in a neighboring 
mill dam. The good people ct that day thought it best to avoid the 
literal execution of the purpose of the people, and instead of locating 
the court house where it could have been made accessible by both land 
and water, they chose the beautfiul and heartsome hills which are within 
and about your beautiful Borough. The spirit of the central idea was 
fairly and fully carried out, and you have had the advantage of entirely 
creating a town in symetry of form and all the beauty of modern con- 
ception. It is healthful, has a pure and abundant water supply ; its homes 
have all the inviting features of rural hospitality, and theie is the absence 
of dilapidation that is so common in the older towns. 

I well remember the general criticism that the charter of your county 
seat invited. The name gave poetic expression to the peace that follow- 
ed long-continued and unfriendly agitation, and the charter is unique in 
declaring that no hotel or saloon shall be licensed to sell liquor within 
the jurisdiction of Media. How far it has promoted sobriety I do not 
care to discuss. I have noticed the ever-present fragments of bottles 
which line the pathway from here to Chester, and have sometimes 
thought that well-regulated licensed houses in Media would avoid the un- 
restrained and often riotous marches beyond its gates to quench the 
thirst of the lover of beer and strong drinks. But it is denominated in 
your charter that the licensed hotel and saloon shall be unknown in your 
midst; it has become one of the accepted sanctities of the Borough, and 
it would require much more than mere logical demonstration to lay vio- 
lent hands upon that or any other feature of your organic law. 

I am very glad to see this large assembly here to celebrate the fiftieth 
anniversary of your county seat. You are not here simply for a day's 
frolic, but you are here because each citizen feels that he, his household 
gods, and all his interests of person and property are centered in this 
town where justice is judicially administered. It is the natural, inborn 
love of the American citizen for law and for order, and his pride in the 
beneficence of our free government. Here the citizen is sovereign Not 
only the rule of your beautiful town, but the rule of your county, of your 
State, and of your great nation, is in the people of the land. They make 
and unmake Presidents and all other officers who frame and administer 
their laws, and they have every inspiration to celebrate every achieve- 
ment that is in the line of enlightened advancement. 



54 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

They are here because they love their homes, their county, their peo- 
ple, and have reverence for the fountain of justice. No people of any 
nation have such profound sense of equal and exact justice between man 
and man as the sovereigns of our great republic. They are not free Irom 
blemish ; their political and public actions olten require criticism, but it 
is so with all the peoples of the earth and ours merit it less than any 
other. Here the home is the centre of authority. Its altar is sacred 
and from it springs the best influences and offices to shape the destinies 
of communities. Where the purity of the home is honored, patriotism is 
ever sincerely cherished, and it is from the homes of the land that the best 
inspirations go out to our people and lead and inspire them in all the 
great conflicts which must at times, be made to preserve nationalty. 
The rule of the home goes out to the rule of the community ; that of the 
community goes out to the rule ot the county ; that of the county goes 
out to the rule of the State, and that of the State goes out to the rule of 
the nation. They are all "distinct as the billows yet one as the sea." 

There is no more appropriate occasion than this to impress not only 
those who have done their chief life's work, but especially the young 
men and women who have an inheritance so priceless as that of our 
great free institutions of the United States. Here at the fountain of jus- 
tice founded in the liberty of law, we can well take note of the matchless, 
progress of our great government, and the grand destiny that is inevita- 
bly shaped for the great republic of the world. Rapid as has been the 
advancement of the republic during the last half century, those who 
shall see another half century and witness the celebration of the centen- 
nial of Media, must tell of grander strides in every attribute of the noblest 
progress made in the closing year of the nineteenth century. 

Our flag now floats not only from eastern to western sea, from North- 
ern Lake to Southern Gulf, but it is established in the West Indies and 
in the Asiatic waters, never again to be furled where it has been planted 
by the heroism of our army and navy. Grave duties have been imposed 
upon us by unexpected conditions although unsought by our statesman- 
ship. We have become the protector of the helpless who for centuries 
were bowed and often broken under the yoke of Spain, and what we 
have undertaken the American people will complete. There are those 
who will resist the inevitable duty and destiny of our nation, but they 
will be ground to powder by the patriotic sentiment of 70,000,000 of free 
people. 

In every element of progress we stand to-day matchless as compared 
with the past, and the young people before me to-day, who are soon to 
take the responsible places of their fathers and their mothers, are to be 
most heartily congratulated that their lots have been cast where the lib- 
erty of law is maintained in its majesty, and where the freest, most intel- 
ligent, and noblest people of the earth have compelled every nation, even 
to the remotest corners of the world, to respect, to honor and largely to 
imitate the beneficent institutions established by our own people in the 
new world. I congratulate those who have taken part in the progress of 
the last half century, and I even more heartily congratulate those who 
are to take part in the coming half century. They have been born to a 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 55 

world better, purer, nobler and grander than any age of the past. The 
last generation has seen in our own land the greatest achievements, alike 
in field and forum ; in war and statesmanship. There is nothing in 
Grecian or Roman story comparable to the heroism of the Blue and the 
Gray, and never in all the history of statesmanship have such grave 
problems been solved, and solved in peace and grandeur, as confronted 
the statesmanship of this country at the close of our civil struggle. 

Schools have multiplied in every section ; colleges are reared in every 
part of our land; the church spire is seen in every community, and in- 
dustry is to-day honored and requited to an extent never before known 
in the history of any people. Thus do I congratulate those of the past 
who have built Media and made it beautiful; thus do I congratulate 
those who are just coming on the stage of action, who will be charged 
with the high and sacred duty of proving to the country and to the world 
"that government of people, by the people and for the people shall not 
perish from the earth." 




THE CHARTER HOUSE OF TO-DAY. 



56 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

riedia. 

BY BENJAMIN C. POTTS, ESQ. 

Sweeter than lays by ancient minstrels sung, 

Their harps attuned to Music's martial chords, 

Better than chorus from the churches' choirs, 

Better than fame of kinghtly deeds or words — 

To sing the hymn of homely peace we come, 

The Hymn of friendship and the love of home. 

We love our woods, our streams, our vales, our skies ; 

We love the wholesome strength that in them lies ; 

We love our storms, the lightning, the distress 

Which draws us closer to the friends we bless ; 

While our lives last we live to love our friends, 

When life is ended all that's in it ends. 

This is our home : here we may rest secure : 

Here the true neighbor knows his neighbor true : 

Each knows his friend as he knows himself 

And here the outside world finds little pelf — 

Small to that world, we give it little care ; 

We to ourselves are true and to each other are. 

Thousands may fill the city 's busy marts, 

Throngs may there gather with impatient haste, 

Commerce and trade may blind them with the arts 

Which fascinate the fool, and fool at last : 

We live the life of those who love the folks 

Who make the hearthstone dear, who love the jokes, 

The fireside tales, the evening mirth, the song, 

Which make sweet sleep, the night's best gift to man. 

We venerate old things, we reverence old men, 

And pride ourselves on those whose splendid names 

Have made us famous. We will keep ourselves 

Honest and true for other fifty years, 

That those who must come after us may say 

They bless us for the heritage bequeathed. 

Up through the ages comes our title to the past, 

Down through the ages we must go at last : 

A short half century is a respite given, 

To those who have in mind a hope of Heaven. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 57 

Semicentennial Hymn. 



BY H. P. GREEN, ESO. 

Tune — "Sweet Beulah Land. 

1 Fair Media ! to thee we raise 

Our hearts to-day in grateful praise. 
Full fifty fruitful years have been, 
Since first thy day was ushered in. 
We hail — we bless, thy record bright, 
Preserved by law, sustained by right ; 
And proud of all that makes us great, 
The fullness of the harvest wait. 

2 Of all the world we love thee best ; 
'Tis here we find the sweetest rest, 

The steadfast friend, the neighbor true, 
And paths made pleasant to pursue. 
Our scenery grand, beyond compare ; 
Our ancient hills, our valleys fair ; 
Our babbling brooks, our sunset rays, 
All this, and more, we bless and praise. 

3 Fair land of homes ! this is our pride ; 
Here health and happiness abide ; 
Our joys are not by strife destroyed ; 
Here love and peace reign unalloyed. 
Our maidens fair, our manly swain, 
These gifts will cherish and maintain ; 
And when our century's course has run, 
Will prize the work so well begun. 

4 The wisdom of our pioneers 

With passing years more clear appears. 
On principles untried, but true, 
"They builded better than they knew." 
Long may we keep our record bright, 
Eschew the wrong, support the right ; 
And fearless, battle for that cause 
Which merits best our God's applause. 



58 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

Our Dear County Town. 

PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE. 

by GEO. w. smith, m. d. Tune — "The Old Oaken Bucket. 

PAST. 

1 Dear friends; let us sing of this town midst the highlands ; 
Just fifty years since it was started we find ; 

Its Charter then granted secured us these tri-bands 
Of temperance, and justice, and love to mankind. 
A town firmly built upon such a foundation 
Soon gained for itself the most happy renown ; 
And being the seat of our Court's habitation, 
Made this borough at once Our Dear County Town. 
Our beautiful Media ; our health giving Media ; 
Our much beloved Media ; Our Dear County Town. 

PRESENT. 

2 This town filled with blessings from nature's consignment, 
Stands high on these hill tops, so firm and so bold, 
Abounding in beauty, health, wealth and refinement ; 
'Tis an ideal home for the young and the old 

Then thank the kind Father, who reigns high above us, 

For all the great good he has handed us down ; 

And take as a token of how he must love us, 

To give us this treasure, Our Dear Count}* Town, 

Our beautiful Media ; Our health giving Media ; 

Our much beloved Media ; Our Dear County Town. 

FUTURE. 

3 As forward one looks to its future existence, 
The eye of the prophet can readily see 

A town where vice always shall meet with resistance. 
It's people must prosper and happy e'er be. 
Then onward and upward with steps never halting, 
The star of success shining bright in its crown ; 
Fulfilling these fond hopes so high and exalting, 
May man always honor, and God bless our Town, 
Our beautiful Media ; Our health giving Media ; 
Our much beloved Media ; Our Dear County Town. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 59 

MEDIA'S WATER SUPPLY. 

The borough of Media at first drew its water supply from the run now 
forming Broomall's Lake, but as it grew in size and demand, this was 
changed to Ridley Creek. In 1872, prior to the adoption of the State 
Constitution of 1 873, Thomas V. Cooper, then represented Delaware 
county in the House at Harrisburg, secured the passage of a special act, 
torever prohibiting the pollution of Ridley Creek at any and all points 
above the Media Water Works. As a result this magnificent stream, 
rising twenty miles northwest ol Media, has ever since been free from 
pollution. For this, if lor no other reason, it would be the purest source 
of extensive supply known to the State. There are other reasons which 
go to make it the best, certainly as good as any known supply. Ridley 
Creek is fed by many springs along its valley. Where it enters the 
county it is but a sparkling run. It grows in breadth and volume as it de- 
scends from the hills of Edgmont and Upper Providence, until when it 
reaches Media it readily supplies, with no apparent loss to the stream, 
an average of 350,000 gallons per day. A million gallons per day could 
be as readily pumped, and then the loss would scarcely be appreciable. 

The new water works are built on the west side of the stream, near the 
bridge on the Baltimore pike, and just north of the Baltimore Central 
Railroad bridge. They nestle in the valley and make a pretty sight from 
the railroad or any ot the several country roads and hillsides nearby. 
The works have a stone base with brick walls, iron and slate roofs, all 
substantially built. They consist of an engine and boiler house and 
filters. The pumps are the latest improved and are run by a seventy- five 
horse power Corliss engine. '1 here are turbine wheels ol thirty horse 
power which run the water power pumps and save fuel. The reservoir 
lias a million and a half capacity, and a standpipe of 250,000 gallons 
capacity. In addition to the new water works, which were started in 
189S and finished in 1899, a new twelve-inch pumping main was laid a 
distance of two thousand feet, connecting with other mains leading to 
the basins. These basins are located at the highest point of the town, 
and give a full force of water to any part thereof, or to the highest story 
of any building. 

There has never been complaint of lack of water in the driest seasons, 
and since the modern system of filtration was introduced by the Borough 
Councils, the water has never been discolored, however violent any 
storm. This has been wholly true for nearly two years, and clearer or 
finer water cannot be found anywhere. 

Many analyses have been made, and the highest authorities, including 
the local and State Boards ot Health, pronounce it unsurpassed by any 
water supply with their knowledge. To this fact, more than to any 
other, is Media indebted, during all of thirty years, to freedom from any 
extended or dangerous epidemic. A number of its citizens who enlisted 
for the Spanish war returned with malarial troubles, and some with ag- 
gravated forms of typhoid fever, but each and every soldier recovered, 
and their recovery was largely traceable to the purity of the water. 

So greatly is the purity of this water valued that Wallingford, noted 
for the wealth and intelligence of its citizens, secured an Act of the Leg- 



60 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

islature enabling Media to extend its supply to that beautiful seclior, and 
it has for ten years been supplied by one ot the mains, the borough de- 
riving a satisfactory revenue therefrom. 

The Pennsylvania Training School, with fully twelve hundred popula- 
tion, draws its supply irom the Media Water Works. This supply is 
filtered, and yields to Media a revenue of $1500 a year. 

Media is independent in her water supply, doubly independent through 
special legislative protection beyond repeal, and is doubly blessed in the 
best water at very low rates. The annual water tax is lighter than that of 
any town known with any system half so modern or extensive. 

The new water works were started by the borough council in 1871, 
but were not completely remodeled until 1899 They are now regarded 
as complete for some years to come, and adequate for 15000 population. 

The Borough Superintendent of Water is George W. Carey, a practi- 
cal engineer and plumber, thoroughly up in hydraulics. He is paid an 
annual salary, and gives unremitting attention to the work. 

The Borough Water Committee lor this year consists of Winfield S. 
Worrall, Frank I. Taylor and William F. Lewis. Each and all care- 
fully heed every complaint, but complaints are now few and far between. 

Media is more fortunate than any other borough in the State in its 
water supply, because of unquestioned purity, absolute clearness, splen- 
did taste, superabundance of supply and the cheapness of it all. As 
compared with the average of boroughs, the water tax on property 
owners is quite low. Added to all this is ample protection from fire, the 
town being well supplied with modern fire hydrants. 



Media's Postmasters and the Location of the Post Office 
at Different Times. — Bv Albin P. Ottey. 

Prior to incorpoiation of Media borough, there was a post office known 
as "Providence," and located at the present "Worrall Mansion," north- 
west corner of Washington street and Providence Road, then known as 
the "Anvil" Hotel, and owned by Peter Worrall. In 1853, Ellis 
Smedley was appointed postmaster, the name of the office changed to 
Media, and the office established at Smedley's store, northeast corner of 
State street and South avenue. In 1S57, Chas. R. Williamson was ap- 
pointed and the office removed to his store, southeast corner of Front 
and Orange streets. In 1858, Mr. Williamson was elected County Treas- 
urer, and upon his resignation as postmaster, Thos. M. Williamson was 
appointed, and removed the office to his residence, southwest corner of 
Orange and Baker Sts. In 1861, Wm T. Innes was appointed and had 
the office at his tailor shop on Orange street, a few doors above its 
former location, and in the spring of 1865 — having purchased the John 
G. Worrall property, on the south side ot State street, removed the office 
to that place. In the fall of 1865, Joseph G. Cummins was appointed 
under the Andrew Johnson administration, and had the office at his book 
and stationery store, on the south side of State street. In 1869, Samuel 
Dutton was appointed and removed the office to one of the one-story 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 6l 

offices on South avenue, near the Court House, afterwards removing it 
to the building on State street, next to the First National Bank, where 
he remained about three months, when he purchased the dwelling on 
State street, next door to the American Office, and removed the office 
there. In 1877, Miss Miranda Williamson was appointed, and had the 
office on South avenue for a lew months, until Col. Joseph W. Hawley 
erected the building on the north side of State street, (next door to the 
now large and commodious hardware store, owned by him, and occupied 
by Samuel W. Hawley and Henry C. Snowden, Jr,) when it was re- 
moved there. In 1886, Miss Williamson resigned and James C. Hen- 
derson, Sr., was appointed by President Cleveland, the office remaining 
in the Hawley building. In 1891, Joseph Addison Thomson was ap- 
pointed by President Harrison, the office remaining in the same building 
until January 1st, 1892 — where by reason of more commodious quarters 
being needed, the office was removed to its present location, on the 
southeast corner of State and Plum streets ; the building having been re- 
modelled and strengthened, and with a new and complete arrangement 
of boxes and office room, the improvements were marked and the re- 
ceipts of the office increased to such an extent as to make it a first-class 
office. The death of Mr. Thomson, which occured on December 19th, 
1 891, compelled Capt. Edgar T. Miller to assume charge in the interest 
of Mr. Thomson's bondsmen, who continued in office until January 1st, 
1893, when Henry C. Snowden, Jr., was appointed by President Harri- 
son. He remained in office until 1894, when Emil Holl was appointed 
by Mr. Cleveland, (who had become President again.) In 1898, Miss 
Harriet F. Gault was appointed by President McKinley, at the solicita- 
tion of Mrs. McKinley, she having been in former years a pupil at Miss 
Eastman's Academy at Media, Miss Gault having been a teacher there at 
the time. Miss Gault is at present postmistress. 



l-« -«•»— »•! 



Christ (Episcopal) Church. 

Some time during the summer of 1853, public worship, according to 
the order of the Episcopal Church, was first held in Media. The Rev. 
L P. W. Balch, D. D., then Rector of the church in West Chester, offi- 
ciated, the members of the congregation meeting in the Court House, 
then recently built. From that time until the organization of the parish, 
services continued to be held either in the Court House or in the Meth- 
odist Chapel, which was courteously loaned for that purpose. Amongst 
the clergymen who officiated during the earlier days of the parish, the 
Rev. G. E. Hare and the Rev. B. S. Huntington are remembered. 

On August 28th, 1854, a charter incorporating "the Rector, Church 
Wardens and Vestrymen of Christ Church of Media," was obtained from 
the county court ; and at about the same time the first rector of the 
parish, the Rev. S. Hazelhurst assumed charge of the congregation. The 
following named gentlemen constituted the original vestry of the church: 
John Fildes, H. Jones Brooke, Charles D. Manley, Thomas Forsythe, 
William Nuzum, Isaac Worrall and Wm. Beeby. 



62 SKMI- CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

On May 28th, 1857, the parish was canonically admitted into union 
with the Diocesan Convention. On July 5th, 1858, the corner stone of 
the present parish church, was laid by the Rt. Rev. Alfred Lee, D. D. 
The church building was consecrated June 21st, i860, by the Rt. Rev. 
Alonzo Potter, D. D. 

The church property has been improved exteriorly by the addition of 
a bell tower, which was erected by the students of Brooke Hall Semi- 
nary, and a pastoral residence, the generous gift of the late Mrs. J. H. 
Hceckley. Interiorly, the church was entirely remodeled and beautified 
about six years ago, and more recently, the parish building at the rear 
of the church, was considerably enlarged, to meet the increased paro- 
chial demands. 

The past rectors of the parish, in the order of their service are as fol- 
lows . — the Revs. S. Hazelhurst, H. S. Getz, S. Edwards, S. W. Hallo- 
well, W. F. C. Morsell, E. Lounsbury, DeW. C. Byllesby and H. D. 
Jones. Rev. A. J. Arnold is the present rector. 

The present incumbent assumed charge of the parish February 1st, 
1.894. The following named gentlemen constituted the present vestry : 
Messrs. J. Watts Mercur, J. Henry Evans, Wm. H. Cope, W. M. Sharp- 
ies, Theo. P. Saulnier, George M. Wharton, R. Tyndale, H. Ashton 
Little, S. D. Risley, M. D. 



Media's Distinguished Dead. 

We can give but a passing sketch of the leading citizens of Media, 
who have joined the great majority. 

Dr. Geo. Smith, the County's ablest historian, though not a citizen of 
Media, was practicaily its founder, being the head of the movement to 
change the County Seat from Chester to Media, and in connection with 
Rev. James W. Dale, was the author of its Charter. Dr. Smith's History 
of Delaware County is able accurate and of great interest. It is still 
part of the library of our County's oldest residents. He served in the 
State Senate, and actually framed the first common school law, he being 
its ablest champion in the Senate, while Thaddeus Stevens secured its 
passage in the House. 

Rev. James W. Dale, for many years the head of Media's Presbyte- 
rian Church, was the author of the prohibitory feature of Media's Charter. 
He was noted for his eloquence, and died at a ripe age, while in charge 
of the Church at Wayne. 

John B. Hill owned most of the ground on which Media is built, and 
cultivated it as a farm. He lived in what is known as the Brooke 
Mansion. He paid but $27 an acre, and when Media was incorporated 
rapidly sold out at great advances. He lived long and quietly, and was 
noted for his thrift and industry. 

Hon. H. Jones Brooke was an early purchaser of ground in Media, 
and was the most active spirit in the construction of its steam railroad, 
now known as the Baltimore Central. He twice represented his District 
in the State Senate, and with marked ability. He left four sons, all dis- 
tinguished in business, two of them still living, Colonel Benjamin and 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 63 

Hunter. Frank M. Brooke, recently deceased, was District Attorney of 
the county. In Philadelphia he became a leading grain merchant in 
partnership witn his brother Hunter. 

Hon. John M. Broomall came to Media from Chester. He had a 
national reputation as a member of Congress, beginning his three terms 
in 1862. He was also a member of the State Constitutional Conven- 
tion in 1873. As a lawyer and orator he had few equals in the State. 

Walker Y. Hoopes laid the foundation for his fortune as a country 
storekeeper at Lima, and was for many years one of Media's most prom- 
inent bankers. 

Joseph Ad: Thomson was Media's oldest school teacher, finally its 
postmaster, and lor over thirty years the writer of the well-known 
"Steele Penne" letters in the American. 

Hon. Edward Darlington, the father of Geo. E. Darlington, Esq, rep- 
resented Chester and Delaware Counties in Congress back in the anti- 
Masonic times, and was chosen on that ticket. He was one of Media's 
most distinguished lawyers, as was his son-in-law, Joseph P. Morris, who 
died before he reached his prime. 

Jesse Bishop, after a term as District Attorney, went West, and was 
for several years a State Senator and Judge in Illinois. 

Among the leading men who first fixed their residence here because 
of official duties were, Aaron James, John J. Hall, Thomas Forsythe, 
Frank Baker. 

The following register of the deaths of Media's leading men and wo- 
men has been kept by Albin P. Ottey. It dates from January 1st, 
1869 :— 



Age. Date of Deaths. 



Wm. C. Coates 
Joseph G. Cummins 
Matthew Ash 
Cheyney W. Bittle 
H. Jones Brooke 
J. Wesley Batting 
John M. Broomall, Jr. 
Nathan Brooke 
Pratt Bishop 
Jemima E. Brooke 
Mary P. Bishop 
Rev. DeWitt C. Byllesby 
Hon. John M. Broomall 
Wessel C. Brodhead 
Ralph Buckley 
Dr. Daniel G. Brinton 
Elijah Cameron 
Lewis Cochran 
Fred. R. Cutler 
Jas. R. Cummins, Sr. 
Wm. Cowperthwaite 
Rev. Jos. Carlisle 
Isaac D. Chalfant 
Mary G. Dale 
Rev. Jas. W. Dale 
Edw. Darlington, Esq. 
Jacob B. Davenger, Sr. 
J. Burchard Dickeson 
Robt. Eastman, Sr. 



12-12 


S85 


12 1 1 


887 


96 2-5 


*95 


1-12 


871 


12-9 


876 


4 2 


880 


7-12 


884 


5"!3 


[88q 


3 1 ' 


888 


ii-i 


[888 


6-12 


889 


3 2 3 


891 


79 6-3 


1894 


70 10-9 


1894 


66 10- 1 1 


895 


63 6-31 


[899 


6-15 


1869 


10-22 


S70 


5-11 


■873 


10-25 


1875 


123 


r8 94 


92 8-25 


[895 


76 5-10 


[S97 


11-13 


■875 


4-19 


881 


11-23 


884 


6-14 


891 


1 2- 1 1 


896 


8-5 


878 



Age. 


Date of Deaths. 


Samuel G. Eachus 


4-16 


1889 


Milton Edwards 


12-19 


1890 


Matthew Elliot 


11-18 


1894 


Maria L. Eastman 


80 2-17 


1895 


Mary A. Easby 


8-26 


1895 


Geo. G. Fell 


12-7 


1876 


Frederick Fairlamb 


12-26 


1878 


Jennie Farran 


6-23 


1880 


Dr. Edwin Fussell 


3-10 


1882 


Samuel Fields, Sr. 


10-9 


1886 


Catharine V. Fell 


83 1-29 


1890 


Phaebe Flounders 


83 10-24 


1890 


J. Hamilton Field 


80 11-20 


1893 


Rev. W. W. Grimes 


67 11 28 


1891 


Asenath Henderson 


4-14 


1869 


Rev. Samuel Hallowell 


53° 


1872 


Isaac Haldeman 


8 12 


1878 


Hugh Holmes 


10-2 


1883 


David Hardcastle, Sr. 


8-25 


18S6 


John M. Hall 


83 1-12 


1891 


Baldwin Howard 


89 1-27 


1892 


Thos. J. Haldeman 


44 


1894 


Walker Y. Hoopes 


80 1 2- 1 


189s 


Mary A. Hceckley 


84 3-23 


1898 


Mary Hanley 


72 12-29 


1898 


Thos. J. Henderson 


9-24 


1899 


Joseph Ilift' 


4-14 


1874 


Lrllie H. Parsons Ivison 


3-10 


1 89 1 


Wm. T. Innis 


82 12-28 


1891 



6 4 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



Age. Date of Deaths. 



Age. Date of Deaths. 



Mary W. James 
Aaron James 
Wm. Jones 
Gustavus Koegler 
Thomas J. Kitts 
Crawford Kugler 
Joseph Kerlin 
Frank J. Kranz 
Geo. Lewis, Sr. 
Samuel C. Long 
Rev. Edw. Lounsberry 
Isaac C. Litzenberg 
Chas. D. Manley, Esq., 
Dr. A. W. Mathues 
Levis Miller 
Wm. F. Miskey 
C. H. N. Manel 
Hugh McMunn 
Hannah J. McClintock 
Benj. F. Niles 
Geo. W. Ormsby 
Chas. Edw. Ottey 
Sarah D. Price 
Job Pitts 
John C. Price 
Thomas Pratt 
Lewis Palmer 
T. Gardner Preston 
Mark Packard 
Sophia Pitts 
James Patchell 
Rev. Wm. R. Patton 
Abram J. Quinby 
William F. Mathues 
Wm. Russell, Sr. 
Catharine Reilly 
George W. Rigby 
Miss Sarah Reese 
Daniel Rice, Sr. 
Elizabeth M. Rigby 

Average death rate 17 to 19 per 1 000 each year — an exceedingly 
low rate in a town showing an unusual number of old people. Total 
number of deaths in Media from January 1st, 1869, to January 1st, 
1900 — 922. 



7-8 


1877 


Hon. Thos. Reece 


83 


310 


894 


8-3 


878 


Dr. Jos. Rowland 


81 


4-29 


895 


1-9 i 


892 


Terrence Reilly 


75 


1-16 i 


896 


1 1 25 


[878 


John J. Rowland 


75 


5-16 


[896 


12-18 


1884 


Wm. Randolph 




5-'5 


897 


1-20 


1886 


T. Edwin Rorer 




2 28 


.899 


88 5-6 


'895 


Dr. A. K. Scholl 




4-2 


S69 


4-28 


899 


Robert Suter, Sr. 




9-21 


1883 


2-22 


870 


Salem J. Smedley 




1-23 i 


885 


1-1 


874 


Clayton Smith 




4-18 i 


885 


10-12 


878 


Jacob Smedley 




9-26 


886 


9-22 


1898 


Frank S. Schuchardt 




6-15 


'893 


12-20 


[880 


Clarkson Sheppard 


83 


10-4 


'895 


3- 2 3 


1886 


Abram P. Smedley 




12-9 


1895 


86 10-24 


891 


Wm. J. Smedley 




12-10 


897 


78 6-30 1 


894 


Ann Sweeney 




12-18 


[897 


4- 2 3 ! 


897 


Chas. B. Sprogell 




5-6 


[898 


5-20 i 


877 


Israel L. Thomas 




7*5 


.871 


9-2 


898 


Samuel B. Thomas, Esq. 




7-2 


[872 


1-8 i 


871 


Jos. Addison Thomson 




12-19 


[891 


3-20 


1883 


Wesley G. Worrall 




2-16 


■873 


1-18 


[899 


Peter Worrall, Jr. 






'875 


12-5 


1870 


Robt. Watkin 




2-27 


1876 


923 


>8 7 5 


Henry Walls 




4-3° 


878 


10 22 


880 


Wm. H. Worrall, Sr. 




3-21 


1885 


35 


1883 


Thcs. M. Williamson 




12-6 


889 


12-31 


1887 


l'ermelia Walker 




11-17 


891 


10-10 


[890 


Isaac Worrall, Sr. 




4-4 


893 


80 10-29 


1896 


Caleb Webster 


78 


4 22 


895 


90 11-21 


[898 


Azariah L. Williamson 


93 


5- x 3 


895 


84 2-3 


899 


N. F. Walter, Esq. 


81 


9-4 


895 


6-5 


1899 


Jacob Weaver 


90 


4-14 


897 


8-3° 


890 


Carrie A. Weaver 




J -5 


899 


12-13 


894 


Rev. JJenry L. Wright 




4-21 


1899 


8-1 1 


>8 7 3 


Caleb Yarnall 




3-4 


886 


105 10-3 


1874 


Amor Yarnall 




8-24 


887 


8-9 


881 


Edwin E. Bowden 




1-12 


900 


8 8 


882 


Henry Green, Esq. 




2-23 


900 


11 


886 


Geo. W. Hill 


78 


3-3o 


900 


12 18 


890 











SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 6$ 

THE MEDIA GAS COMPANY. 

This company was incorporated under an Act of Assembly approved April 
iith, 1866. The incorporators were : — H. Jones Brooke, Isaac Haldeman, 
Wm. V. Black, John M. Hall, Charles R. Williamson, Christian Schur, Isaac 
Worrall, Jr., John C. Beatty, John McMullin, James R. Cummins, Dr. A. K. 
Scholl, W. C. Brodhead, O. F. Bnllard, A. Lewis Smith, E. A. Price, George 
G. Fell, Charles D. Manley, Clayton Smith, P. F. Baker, A. W. Mathues, 
Wm. T Jones, Thomas Pratt, Jacob Herman Hoeckley, I. L. Haldeman, 
Henry Wood, Aaron James, and Joseph G. Cummins. 

Of these twenty-six incorporators only six survive, and of these six all still 
reside in Media and are active in its business interests. The capital stock 
first invested was $20,000, in 800 shares of $25 each. A much greater sum 
has been invested through a gradual extension of the works to meet the 
necessities of a growing town. The entire sum thus invested is full}* 
$40,000. 

The first officers were : — President, H. Jones Brooke ; Managers, I. L. 

Haldeman, C. R. Williamson, E. A. Price, Isaac Worrall, Jr., and D. R. 

Hawkins. The Treasurer was Col. Joseph W. Hawley ; Secretary, O. F. 
Bullard. 

On December nth, 1S71, the managers reported to the Company that the 
works were in complete order and that the full amount of the capital stock 
had been taken and fully paid. 

There is one peculiarity in the formation and history of the Media Gas 
Company. All of its stock was originally taken by residents and property 
owners of the town, and all of it is still held by this class of persons. Each 
and every remaining stockholder resides in the town or has property therein 
and keeps up his business connections with it. 

There ware originally eight}- stockholders, and there are to-day twenty-eight, 
all of these being original or representing original stockholders. This illus- 
trates the tenacity of the Medes in holding on to honestly managed home 
investments, probably better than can be found in the history of any other 
corporation living for a generation. 

The Company manufactured gas from coal until 1894, when it was changed 
to a water gas plant, and has continued the water system ever since. The 
light furnished is first-class, and at as reasonable rates as are usual to towns 
the size of Media. When the Electric Light Company began operations, the 
Media Gas Company for a time ceased to pay dividends, and furnished the 
gas at as low as previous rates, keeping up improvements, and giving the 
consumers the benefit of what the stockholders lost in the process of out- 
growing competition with electric lights. Only recently dividends have 
been resumed, but this without any increase in price, and it is the purpose 
of the management to reduce the price as rapidly as possible, now that it is 
once again on a paying basis. Every dollar expended in labor has been ex- 
pended in the town, none being allowed to go out of it, and in this way the 
town has been doubly benefitted. 

The present officers are : — President, Col. Benjamin Brooke ; Board of 
Managers, Charles R. Williamson, Col. Jos. W. Hawley, Horace P. Green, 
Dr. Wm. F. Campbell and Hunter Brooke ; Secretary and Treasurer, E. H. 
Hall. 



66 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

MEDIA'S ELECTRIC LIGHTS. 

These are as fine as any in the land, and the history through which the\ T 
were obtained is interesting, though not as old as that of some of the other 
corporations of the town. 

The first effort was organized June 6th, 1884, the subscribers and directors 
being Wm. F. Miskey, Wm. H. Miller, Ralph Buckley, Swithin C. Shortlid,-e 
and H. C. Howard, the latter being treasurer. A charter was obtained under 
the name of "The Media Electric Light, Steam Heating and Steam Motive 
Power Company," but no definite results were reached. In 1889 Robt. W. 
Downing, then and still a resident at Wallingford, and his son Frank T. made 
an active canvass for the establishment of a new company, they guaranteeing 
its success by an offer to take all unsubscribed shares of stcck. This quickly 
led to the incorporation of "The Media Electric Light, Heat and Power Com- 
pany," with a capital of $10,000, which capital was the same year increased 
to $40,000. The first officers were : President, Henry C. Howard ; secretary, 
James G. Cummins ; treasurer, John T. Reynolds ; superintendent, W. J. 
Alexander ; directors, Henry C. Howard, Isaac L. Miller, Samuel W. Haw. 
ley, John H. Hawkins, S C, Shortlidge, W. R. Newbold, Henry C. Snowden, 
Jesse M. Baker and Thomas V. Cooper. 

In July, 18S9, the contract to build the plant was awarded to M. R. 
Muckle, Jr., & Co., and it was promptly completed in the best manner — the 
plant being erected adjoining the tracks of the Baltimore Central Railroad, 
about 100 yards east of the Media station. In December, 18S9, W. J. Alex- 
ander actively began his duties as superintendent, and W. R. Fronefield was 
elected secretary and solicitor. 

The present officers are : President, Frank T. Downing ; secretary 7 and 
treasurer, \V. R. Fronefield ; superintendent, W. J. Alexander ; directors, R. 
W. Downing, Charles G. Downing, W. C. Downing, Frank T. Downing and 
R. W. Downing, Jr. 

From the start of the works a contract was awarded by the borough to light 
the most prominent streets with arc lights, the others with incandescents, and 
this has continued without interruption. Most of the stores and dwellings of 
the borough are also fully lighted, and the line extends to Wallingford, af- 
fording abundant light to that section. The charges are moderate, quite as 
low as those of any other borough of like constimption. The quality is also 
of the finest, 

At first the contract system was almost universally employed, charging a 
given sum annually for lamps, but this resulted in loss to the company, the 
amount of light used and power expended being far in excess of calculations. 
This fact, in addition to the enterprise of the company in wiring the houses 
of all original consumers without cost, prevented any dividends, and many 
of the stockholders sold to the only willing buyers, who were mostly mem- 
bers of the Downing family, hence their large holdings and their directorship. 
In each and every case, however, the original and all other investors were 
treated with absolute fairness and paid full value for their stock. This left no 
room for complaint ; it was on the other hand a subject for congratulation on 
the part of the original investors, all of whom received a premium on their 
stock before it had earned a dollar. 

The company is in splendid shape for increasing its business, and is strong 
enough to meet any contingency or any form of competition. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 67 

THE DELAWARE COUNTY MUTUAL INSURANCE 
COMPANY. 

By an Act of Assembly passed the 12th day of June, 1839, it was en- 
acted that James M. Willcox, William Trimble, William Mendenhall, 
Richard S. Smith, Joseph Wilson, Eli D. Pierce, John Kerlin, Henry 
Myers and William Beatty, and all other persons being citizens of the 
United States, who may hereafter associate with them, shall be a corpora- 
tion for the purpose of insuring their respective dwelling houses, stores, 
shops and other buildings, household furniture, merchandise, and other 
property against loss or damage by fire, which Act was to continue in 
force for twenty years. 

There was apparently some attempt to organize under this Act as a 
blank policy, was recently found among the papers of James W. Willcox, 
signed by himself as president, and E. Darlington as secretary, together 
with an impression of the official seal. 

There is no record of the organization which elected the officers 
named, and nothing appears to have been done until 1852, when by an 
Act of the Legislature passed May 1st, 1852, the Act of June 12, 1839, 
was extended twenty years, and in lieu of the names mentioned as 
the original corporators, there were inserted the names of Dr. George 
Smith, William Eves, William Ogden, John M. Broomall, William 
Booth, Sketchley Morton, Levis Miller, Joseph Edwards, Adam C. 
Eckfeldt, Jamts Moore, Homer Eachus, John C. Beatty, Isaac Thomas, 
James J. Lewis, Joel Evans, Isaac M. Trimble, James Barton, John H. 
Andrews, Annesley Newlin, Walker Y. Hoopes, Minshall Painter, 
Eli D. Pierce, Nathan H. Baker, John Hill and John Jackson, who were 
to be the first directors. 

On September 2nd, 1852, a meeting of the Directors was held at the 
Charter House, Media, at which the following were present, Dr. George 
Smith, William Eves, Sketchley Morton, Levis Miller, Adam C. Eck- 
feldt, Isaac Thomas, James J. Levis, James Barton, Annesley Newlin, 
Walker Y. Hooper, Minshall Painter, Eli D. Pierce, Nathan H. Baker, 
John Hill and William Ogden. 

Dr. George Smith was elected chairman and William Ogden secretary. 
The county was divided into districts and surveys ordered to be made for 
the issuing of policies. 

An adjourned meeting was held at the Charter house, Oct 18th, 1852, 
at which a number of the directors just mentioned were present, together 



68 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

with John H. Andrews, John M. Broomall and John C.Beatty, who were 
not present at the first meeting. 

At this meeting applications for insurance were reported, amounting 
to $281,771, and a permanent organization was effected and the following 
officers and committee were elected: — President, John M. Broomall; 
secretary, Jesse Bishop; treasurer, John C. Beatty. Executive Com- 
mittee : — Eli D. Pierce, John C. Beatty, John Hill, Levis Miller and 
William Ogden. 

At a meeting of the executive committee held October 20th, 1852, the 
rates, rules, regulations and conditions of insurancs and by-laws were 
adopted. 

At a meeting of the board of directors held August nth, 1853, the 
rates and by-laws adopted by the executive committee were approved. 
The first policy was issued to George Broomall on the Penn Buildings, 
3rd and Market streets, Chester, and is still in force. 

The third section of the Act of 1839, restricted the number of directors 
to nine, on August 1 ith, 1853, the first regular election for directors was 
held and the following were chosen. — John M. Broomall, Eli D. Pierce, 
Sketchley Morton, William Ogden, James Barton, Thomas Pratt, Charles 
Palmer, Levis Miller and William Eves. 

At an election for directors held March 18th, 1854, the names of Eli 
D. Pierce and James Barton were dropped and Charles R. Williamson 
and Robert M. Thomas were chosen in their places. 

At an election held March 10, 1856, Sketchley Morton was elected 
president and Edward A. Price, secretary, in place of Jesse Bishop, who 
resigned. 

On May 26, 1862, Edward A. Price was elected treasurer of the com- 
pany. 

On January 22, 1872, the company purchased the lot of ground on the 
southwest corner of Front street and South avenue, on which they erect- 
ed the present office building at a cost of some $23,000, and occupied the 
same in October, 1873. 

On October 15, 1877, Sketchley Morton resigned as president, in con- 
sequence of failing health and Thomas Pratt was elected in his stead. 

At a meeting held March 12, 1S83, Levis Miller was elected president 
in the place of Thomas Pratt who had died. 

On account of failing health Levis Miller was compelled to relinquish 
the office of president, and on May 13, 1889, Charles R Williamson was 
elected president in his stead and still continues to hold the position. 

The positions of secretary and treasurer to which Edward A. Price 
was elected — the one on March 10, 1856, and the other on May 26, 1862 
— are still held by him. 

The present directors are as follows : Charles R. Williamson, Henry 
Paschall, Henry Mendenhall, Edmund Jones, William Rhoads, Richard 
T. Ogden, George Broomall, Thomas Palmer and George E. Burnley. 

The company has issued 14,435 policies, has paid for losses up to the 
present time the sum of $468,765.12, and has a reserve of some $40,000. 
It has through all its history proven to be one of the safest and most re- 
liable fire insurance companies in the State. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



69 




THE COLONIAL. 

For years this fine summer boarding house was known as the Chestnut 
Grove. It was built early in the 6o's, by Hon. H.Jones Brooke and purchased 
by Mrs. Hoeekley, who for years had profitable seasons. With growing age 
her business slackened, and was for a time abandoned. Two years ago, the 
property was purchased by N. H. Wagner, and it has since been transformed 
as if by magic. With the improvements but half completed, he had last sea- 
son a full house, and this year with greatly increased accommodations, there 
is promise of far the best season ever known. The changes are complete. Only 
the old walls and the older trees are now in place. The grounds have been so 
trimmed and planted that they are a source of delight, with still abundant 
shade, and yet room for air and sunlight. Everything is new within the 
great house and its annex just completed, and there is now capacity for fully 
200 boarders. There is a system of elevators just introduced and run by 
water power. There are parlors for guests, for music, card rooms, ball room, 
billiard, pool, shuffle board and bowling alley, while the grand porches enable 
all who wish to live out of doors. Its great doorways are within an easy two 
minutes' walk to the Media Station, and the view all around and about i a 
pleasant and restful. The Colonial is on an ideal spot of earth, and its archi- 
tecture now fully justifies its name. The season begins May 1st, and the 
guests linger until the ides of November. Mr, Wagner's enterprise came at a 
good time to aid in maintaining Media's high reputation as a beautiful and. 
popular summer resort. 



70 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

LIST OF COUNTY OFFICERS 

Judge, Isaac Johnson ; Court Stenographer, C. M. Broomall. 

Prothonotary and Clerk of the Courts, William L. Mathues; Deputy 
Frothonotarys, A. J. Dalton, George M. Hannum. Clerks, J. Rohrman 
Robinson, C. W. Mathues. 

Sheriff, Edmund Oliver ; Deputies, Rickard F. Flickwir, Charles li. 
Wolf. 

Clerk of the Orphans' Court and Register of Wills, George S. Patchell; 
Deputy, A. V. B. Smith. 

Recorder of Deeds, 1 homas D. Young ; Deputy, Joseph M. Rogers. 

County Treasurer, Edward S. Hickman. 

County Commissioners, William P. Hippie, Henry C. Marshall, W. 
F. Cutler ; clerk, Harry W. Hcnan ; ass't. clerk, Andrew H. Pennell. 

County superintendent, A. G. C. Smith. 

Directors of the Poor, Newton P. West, J. M. Chamberlain, Glover 
Clark. 

County Auditors, B. G. Ladomus, H. H. Scott. E. C. M. Watts. 

Warden of the County Prison, Thomas S. Fields ; matron, Mrs. 
Thomas S. Fields. 

Inspectors of the County Prison, Harry D. Pratt, Charles Crawford, 
Jared Darlington, J. Lord Rigby and Frank I. Taylor. 

Steward of the County Home, James W. Barker ; matron Mrs. James 
W. Barker. 

Janitor of the Court House, Llewellvn Clevenger ; ass't. janitor, John 
L. Daltry. 

THE CHARTER HOUSE. 
The piate ot the Charter House is elsewhere printed in this souvenir 
editon as part of the description of the town. There is no way to leave 
it out, for it has for many years been a marked feature. It is probably 
as well known as any temperance hotel in the State, and it has always 
deserved its reputation. The present proprietor is Edward S. Martin, 
and he has brought the old building so well up to modern standards that 
none could suspect its age. Mr. Martin was quick to see and repair any 
early defect in convenience and sanitation, and he was quick to realize 
that the Charter House was thoroughly adapted for an all-year-round 
boarding house, where good fare could be united with home comforts. 
The result is an extended patronage of both winter and summer board- 
ers, the spacious rooms being weh 1 filled in the summer months. The 
house is the very centre of the town, convenient to the railway station, 
and the trolly lines. Its spacious porches relieve the heat of mid-sum- 
mer, and at all times give a view of the street scenes as they move like a 
quiet panorama before one's view. There are no more prompt or oblig- 
ing hosts than Mr. and Mrs. Martin. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



71 



. # * 1 




1871 



IDLEWILD. 



1900 



This well known summer resort at Media, of which D. Reece Hawkins' 
Sons, John H. and Alfred L. are the proprietors, was built in 187 1, and has be- 
come the most popular summer resort in Eastern Pennsylvania. "Idlewild" is 
situated on one of the most prominent hills in this picturesque locality, in a 
grove of old forest trees. It is within seven minutes' walk from the railroad 
station and 21 minutes' ride to Broad Street Station, Philadelphia ; more than 
50 trains stop daily, a number of which are express. The building is large 
and is supplied with the latest modern improvements, electric lights, steam 
heat, etc. A passenger elevator of approved pattern, with safety appliances, 
starts from the basement. Guests ma}' step into it from their carriage in a 
covered way and ascend to any floor. It is supplied with pure artesian water. 
It has stables for the accommodation of equippages of those who desire to 
keep their own teams. The lawn is well shaded and covers about 18 acres. 
Golf links, tennis courts, bowling alleys, billard tables, and shuffle boards 
furnish pleasure or exercise. Particular attention has been given to the 
plumbing ; all fixtures are thoroughly sanitary and have been constructed 
under the supervision of Messrs Watson & Peale, of Philadelphia. The 
house is well furnished in even- department. The first* floor contains the 
large general parlor, the children's parlor, reception room, dining room, chil- 
dren's dining room and private retiring room. The other floors contain par- 
lors and chambers and furnished accommodations for 125 to 150 guests. 
Persons who are looking for a summer retreat cannot fail to be pleased with 
the delightful breezes and comforts of "Idlewild." 



72 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

Financial Institutions. 




FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF MEDIA. 

In all of its history, Media has never had a misfortune in any of its finan- 
cial institutions — more than this, there has never been the fear of one. The 
private banking of the earliest years of the town was in experienced hands, but 
all of these quietly yielded the right of way to the First National Bank when 
it was organized, and this right of way it still holds by virtue of age, strength 
and a firm continuance of only the best banking methods. So high is its 
reputation that in the scale of merit adopted by the United States Treasury 
and applied by its Comptroller to all of the National Banks of the United 
States, the First National of Media, stands within eight of the top in the 
State, and within thirty-seven in the United States. This is a fact of which 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 73 

any city in the land could well be proud, as to any of its banks, and the pride 
of Media is more than doubly reflected through the great number ol towns and 
the thousands of National Banks — now in actual number 5,21 8 in 1899, ac- 
cording to the report of the Comptroller of the Currency. 

The first meeting which led to the organization of the First National Bank 
of Media, was held in the Haldeman building on the 22cl of February, 1864. 
This meeting comprised the subscribers to the capital stock, and ninety-four 
were represented Those of the first stockholders yet living are Charles R. 
Williamson, Joshua T. Ballinger, Christian Schur, A. B. Williamson, Wm. 
Bartram, Joseph P. Gibbons, James D. Rhoads, Elizabeth L. Thomas, Rebecca 
L. Paiste, H. B. Black, Hannah R. Lewis, William H. Miller, Jacob Hibberd, 
Richard T Ogden and J. Frank Black. 

Isaac Haldeman, the first president, died in 1S78, and was succeeded by his 
s >n, Thomas J., who died in 1894, and he was succeeded by Colonel Joseph 
W. Havvley, the present incumbent. 

The first capital authorized and paid in was $65,000, and was increased 
the same yeir to $100,000. The first directors were Isaac Haldeman, H. 
Jones Brooke, Win. B. Black, Charles R, Williamson, A. L. Williamson, 
Stephen Ogden, Abraham Pennell, Lewis Garrett and Thomas Reece. Isaac 

Haldeman was the first President. 

At the second meeting of the Board, Colonel Joseph W. Hawley, but re- 
cently returned from the War for the Union, was elected Cashier, while Frank 
M. Brooke was chosen Solicitor, and George G. Fell, Notarj^ Public. After 
Solicitor Brooke's removal to Philadelphia, he was succeeded by Edward A. 
Price, who is still retained. Thomas J. Kitts was the first clerk and Thomas 
Williamson the first watchman. 

Thomas J. Kitts died in 1884, and was succeeded by his son J. Frank, who, 
after being promoted to cashier resigned in 1897, when Homer E. Hoopes, 
was temporarily appointed cashier, he being succeeded January 1st, 189S, by 
W. W. Moss, who, during the same year, was granted leave of absence to 
serve in the Spanish War with the Chester Company, of which he was Lieu- 
tenant, the duties of cashier again being temporarily performed by Mr. 
Hoopes . 



74 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

The present officers are : — President, Colonel Joseph W. Hawley ; Cashier, 
W. \V. Moss ; Tellers and Book-Keepers, Edw. A. Price, Robt. Fussell, Philip 
B. Moore, and Lydia G. Allen ; Notary Public, A. P. Ottey. 

The present Board of Directors are : — Col Joseph W. Hawley, President ; 
Charles R. Williamson, William H. Miller, Major Edgar T. Miller, George 
M. Lewis, John l.eedom, Homer E. Hoopes, Colonel Benjamin Brooke and 
Charles L. Serrill. 

The Bank began business in the Haldeman building and remained there 
until 1871, when it purchased from ex-Sheriff John M. Hall, the building at 
the corner of State and South avenue, which it occupied until the new granite 
building now in course of completion was started. Earl}' in 1899, Directors 
Charles R. Williamson, Col. Benjamin Brooke and Homer E. Hoopes were ap- 
pointed a committee to report upon and see to the erection of the new build- 
ing, the Bank in the meantime removing to the Fairlamb building, on the 
opposite corner A. W. Dilks is the architect, Ballinger & Co., of Philadel- 
phia, the coutractois ; the vaults are being constructed by the Damon Safe & 
Iron Company of Boston, from designs made by Hollar Lock & Inspection 
Company, safe architects, of Phila. This new building far excels in beauty 
and finish and strength and durability, anything in the town. Indeed we 

know of no town of like size in an}' part of all the land which can show so 
fine a bank building. It will be completed and occupied in July next. 

The business of the bank is very great, and as soon as it gets into its new 
building with costly vaults, as safe as any to be found, there will be oppor- 
tunity to extend the branch for security to personal effects. The deposits 
have for many months exceeded half a million of dollars. The wonder is, 
where does the money come from. It shows that the county is rich and grow- 
ing in riches, for the business of the First National deals with nearly all sec- 
tions of the county, certainly with all of its many Boroughs and Townships. 

The dividends of the First National were at first five percent, semi-annually 
until May, 1885, and have since, been six per cent, semi-annually. The total 
amount of dividends declared since organization, prior to the 1st of May this 
year, has been $381,950.00 ; surplus and undivided profits at same date, 
$255, 750. 00— making the total net profits of the Bank since its organization 
$637,700.00 — certainly a magnificent return for a stock subscription of $100,- 
000. It means a return six times over of the capital in a period of thirty-sij5 
years. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



75 




THE CHARTER NATIONAL BANK OF MEDIA 

Capital, $100,00 \ Surplus, $20,000. Deposits, $250,000. Since the 

present Board of Directors, consisting of C. D. M. Broomhall, Media ; 

Jared Darlington, Glen Mills; VV. Roger Fronefield, Media; Samuel D 

Riddle, Glen Riddle ; Pennock h. Sharpless, Concon ville ; Theo. P. 
Saulnier, Upper Providence ; George M. Tyler, Media ; have 
taken charge of the business of this bank, it has made rapid strides, and 
has become specially popular with the farming community, which is al- 
ways the "back log'' of successful business. This bank was the pioneer in 
building a new banking house, on its own property, which has been a 
decided improvement to the town and adjoining property. Those in 
need of banking facilities, safe deposit boxes, or interest on time deposits, 
will find it to their advantage to call at 



THE CHARTER NATIONAL BANK. 



7 6 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




THE MEDIA TITLE AND TRUST COMPANY 

This is one of the prominent financial institutions of the borough of 
Media and of the county-at-large. It began business January 31st, 1891, 
receiving its charter from the State under Governor Beaver. It was or- 
ganized with an authorized capital of $3CO,CO0, divided into six thousand 
shares at $50 per share. 

The first statement was issued January 31st, 1891, and showed sub- 
scriptions to capital stock of $125,625, and deposits of $1,000. Its pres- 
ent condition following this modest beginning, shows a capital of $1 25,- 
625, a surplus and undivided profits of $40,000, and deposits of $312,267.- 
34. This is a most remarkable growth in a period of nine years, fully 
half of this time being noted for the greatest depressions in business 
through which the country lias ever passed. 

Many of the officers have been with the Media Title since its organiza- 
tion. They are now George Drayton, president ; Horace P. Green, Vice 
President; H. W. Rhodes, Secretary and Treasurer; John A. Pyle, 
Title and Trust Officer; V. Gilpin Robinson, Horace P. Green, Solicitors. 
Directors: — George Drayton, H. P. Green, Emil Holl, John W. Biddle, V. 
G. Robinson, W. M. Parker, Isaac Briggs, W. H. Miller, A. Lewis Smith, 
Jared Darlington, Samuel N Hill, A. P. Ogden, A. L. Hawkins, D. L. 
Caldwell. 

The Company does a general banking business and fills all the usual 
duties of a trust company, such as acting as guardian, administrator, etc. 
One of its features invites small savings for which 3 per cent, interest is 
paid to depositors. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



77 



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MEDIA. PA_ FEBEOABY 20. 1889 



VOLUME xixr 



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CHARLES ZEHNDER. . 

MERCHANT TAILOR* 
S1REET. KEMA. = 




. ConsumpiEOn Begin 



MANDRAKE PILLS 
SEAWEED TONIC 



The Delaware County American 

has been published in Media without ever missing an issue, for more 
than 45 years. It was started in March, 1855. by Cooper & Vernon — 
Thomas V. Cooper, still its senior, and Dr. D. A. Vernon Both were 
practical printers, acquiring "the art preservative of arts" at the Wilming- 
ton, (Del ) Republican Office. Dr. Vernon, before his decease, divided 



78 SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

his interest, selling one-quarter to his son, Thomas R., the remainder to 
Cooper. During the war of the Rebellion it was conducted by Dr. Ver- 
non alone, with Jerome B. Niles as editor. In 1898, Thomas R. Vernon 
traded his interest for the property of the Chester Evening News, since 
sold to Crosby M. Black. The American is now published by Thomas 
V. Cooper and his three sons, Frederick, Percival and Thomas V., Jr. 
It became very profitable after Thomas V. Cooper repurchased his old 
half just following the war, and has ever since been known as the most 
widely circulated county weekly in the United States. 



MULLIN'S LIVERY. 

Theodore D. Mullin is one of Media's best known business men, and his 
livery stand, on the corner opposite the Town Hall, is very central and con- 
venient. It comprises large stables and carriage houses, with good shedding 
for visiting teams, with an office fronting directly upon State street. The 
location could not be better, while the appointments of the establishment are 
all that is to be desired. For wedding, funeral or other sudden and impera- 
tive needs, more cabs, and very handsome ones, can be turned out here than 
in any city liver}' that the writer has knowledge of. 

Here are kept a pair of well drilled horses for the use of the Media Fire 
Company, with headquarters just across the street. As soon as the alarm is 
tapped on the town bell, these horses leave the stable and are in their places 
in the shafts of the engine, the harness literally dropped upon them, and off 
they go, with Mr. Mullin frequently their driver. We ought not to see this 
frequently, for the mad days of the fire-bug passed six years ago, and the 
fact that nearly every adult male Mede was a fireman, and a detective as 
well, reduced very much the damage of an unfortunate craze in one who is 
now dead. 

Mr. Mullin is a graduate from a dairy and milk route in Upper Darby. 
He is familiar with animals, and each and every horse appears to have a 
mutual understanding with him that both are to be well treated. His hack 
service is admirable and so prompt that none are ever left, however inclement 
the day or however early the call . We have said elsewhere that cheap and 
ready hack service is one of the features of business and social life in Media. 
If when the Woman's Club meets for one of their receptions, when fine 
dresses are invariably worn, they have only to telephone for a hack, and on 
such occasions Mr. Mullin is always at the other end of the 'phone. The 
trolly has not disturbed the liverymen of Media, the bicycle has not reduced 
the number of horses which they keep, and they smile in sweet derision at 
the suggestion that they can knock out the enterprise of our liverymen. 
The smile is readily seen on the face of Mr. Mullin, and he lives and moves 
and has his being despite all innovations. The secret is in keeping pace 
with every want in every day courtesies, and in a fearless confidence that 
good teams will always be appreciated. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



79 



Sljc Bciatoare (Kotmla Hktoxh. 




The Delaware County Record 
was founded on March 23, 1878, by Messrs. J. W. Batting, Joseph Chadwick 
and Charles D. Williamson. In less than two years Mr. Batting died, and 
the business was continued by the remaining partners. In 1881, Mr. Wil- 
liamson withdrew, from which time the Record has been published by the sur- 
viving partner, Mr. Chadwick. 

As a public journal, the Record has always aimed— first and foremost— to 



So 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



serve the public interests, and its efforts have been to secure and incorporate 
the best ideals of Republican rule in public affairs. In this mission it has 
enjoyed the confidence and support of citizens throughout the county — ir- 
respective of partisan affinities or predilections. 



PRESTON W. WARE. 

Thirteen years ago, Preston W. 
Ware, proprietor of one of the most 
reliable plumbing, heating and tin- 
smithing establishments in Media, 
alighted from a train at the borough 
depot, simply because this was the 
terminus for that particular train. 
After walking about the town he 
concluded that he could not find a 
better place in which to live, and be- 
gan looking out for .something to do. 
He was a plumber by trade and fin- 
ally secured work with Carey & 
Brother. During the year 1893, 
after counting his accumulated 
wealth and finding that he had $6 in 
good American money, he concluded 
to go into business for himself, He 
invested $5 in tools, rented the small 
building on the southwest corner 
of State and Orange streets and hung out his shingle. On the very 
first day he secured a contract to do some plumbing for George E, 
Darlington, and from that time steadily gained a reputation for the excellence 
of his work. His business grew rapidly, and in 1S96 built his present fine 
store, dwelling and shop on State street next to the Ledger building. Those 
who call on him will find his estimates as low as the lowest, and the work 
will be executed in the best possible manner. 




MISS E. C. VALENTINE. 

The most attractive establishment in the ladies line, is that of Miss E. C 
Valentine, 208 State street, Media. This well-known stand has long been 
associated with the successful business interests of the place. The store is 
filled to repletion with a complete assortment of every discription of ladies 
dress goods, fancy articles, embroideries, etc., which are always the latest 
most popular and fashionable styles. The show window is large and hand- 
somely arranged so that the outside is exceedingly attractive. 

Miss Valentine has been engaged in this specific line of business at her 
present location since 1882. That she has been eminently successful is due 
to the fact that she always gives her strict personal attention to the business 
and her customers the most courteous care. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



MEDIA mm LEDGER. 



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The Media Ledger 
is one of the largest weekly newspaper plants in eastern Pennsylvania 
John B. Robinson is the publisher, and T. Speer Dickson is editor and 
manager. 



82 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

The Second Media Loan and Saving Association 

was organized in April, 1869, the date of its incorporation being August 23 
of that year. The incorporators were H. Jones Brooke, Joseph W. Hawley, 
Thomas V. Cooper, C. R Williamson, Daniel McClintock, Wm. Cooper 
Talley, Fred. Fairlamb, Joseph G. Cummins, I. L. Haldeman, O. Flagg Bill- 
iard, Ralph Buckle\ T and Samuel B. Thomas. Its first officers were H. Jones 
Brooke, president ; O. Flagg Bullard, secretary ; C. R. Williamson, treasurer; 
Samuel B. Thomas, solicitor ; and its directors : — H. Jones Brooke, William 
Cooper Talley, C. R. Williamson, Daniel McClintock, Ralph Buckle}-, Joseph 
G. Cummins, I. L Haldeman, Thomas V. Cooper and Joseph W. Hawley. 
Mr. Brooke was president until in April 1S76, when he was succeeded by 
Ralph Buckley, who in turn was succeeded in April, 1885, by C. R. William- 
son, the present incumbent. In April, 18S9, the charter having expired by 
limitation, the association was re-chartered to have perpetual succession, with 
a capital stock of one million dollars, divided into five thousand shares of the 
par value of two hundred dollars each. Since its organization it has issued a 
series of stock annually, and now retires one series every year, the new series 
just started being the 28th. Its present officers and directors are as follows : 
Officers — C. R. Williamson, president ; Emil, Holl, treasurer ; J. T. Reynolds, 
secretary ; Garrett K. Smedley, solicitor. Directors — C. R. Williamson, 
Horace Darlington, William P. Hippie, Wardle Ellis, H. P. Green, A. G. C. 
Smith, Geo. E. Whitaker, William H. Tricker and Emil Holl. 

J. T. Reynolds, the present secretary, has occupied that position since 
August 18, 1877, a period of now nearly 23 years. 

The first annual report was issued to April, 1870, and showed assets of 

$20,486.22. The present assets are $177,541.06 — a steady and remarkable 
growth. The 28th series has just started. Since the 17th series began the 
number of shares borrowed on has been 845, The value of the shares depend 
upon their age, the highest being $192 08. 

In the early days of this great building association moneys loaned at pre- 
miums as high as 32 per cent. Now premiums are very unusual, and the 
money is loaned on proper building operations at 6 per cent., the shareholder 
getting a practical rebate on this by his profits from the interest paid by 
others. 

The Media Building Association has, in its long life, aided in building more 
than half of all the homes in Media and vicinity, showing what a beneficent 
institution it has been. Home associations of this kind, as carefully man- 
aged as the Media one, have ever proven a blessing to the home and the town, 
wherever incorporated, but the record of the Media Building Association will 
compare favorably with any in the land. Foreign associations have come and 
gone, but it stays year in and year out, promotes improvements, and secures 
many homes to the thrifty throughout this entire section. No institution has 
yet come into active business life which fills the place of the home building 
association. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 83 

BENJAMIN F. FIELDS. 

This gentleman well aids the reputa- 
tion of Media for livery stables equal to 
those oi any other town in the land. 
His stables are very large, and cover 
much of Baker street west of Orange. 
He has won celebrity for the skill and 
energy which he has shown in filling 
large contracts for hauling either pas- 
sengers or freights. He took the con- 
tract last year at the centennial celebra- 
tion of Westtown School to deliver to and from the station three thousand 
persons, a distance of three miles each. It was a stormy da} T , but the pas- 
sengers were there, and so was Mr. Fields with plenty of strong and roomy 
teams, and he gave the utmost satisfaction. The same result followed con- 
tracts to carry large wedding parties. His hacks to and from the station, 
and for any service, are equal to the best, and so is his cab and funeral service. 
The Fields stables deserve all that can be said in their favor, and the push 
and enterprise of the proprietor is the admiration of many friends. Many of 
the botanical and historical societies of Philadelphia and Delaware County 
have been conveyed to all parts of interest in his large and comfortable 
coaches. 




SAMUEL T. KITTS, 

formerly of the Pennsylvania Military Acaden^, is the proprietor of the oldest 
cigar store in Media. It is located at the corner of Orange and Baker streets. 
The business was established many 3 r ears ago, by the then postmaster, Thos. 
Williamson Years later, our present 'squire, Forrest W. Williamson, suc- 
ceeded to the business, and conducted it successfully 7 until 1895, when the 
present owner purchased it. Mr. Kitts always has a large variety of cigars 
and tobaccos on hand. He is genial in manner and consequently gets a good 
share of the tobacco trade. 



VAN L. WOLF. 

One of the strongest desires of an average American is to drive his own 
carriage. It is one phase of our national characteristic of self-reliance, and 
the ambition is as laudable as it is national. The almost universal demand 
for popular light vehicles has stimulated the industry which supplies it, and 
made carriage making our leading industry. Media has a model establish- 
ment in this line of business, and one which stands second to none in point 
of reputation for really fine and substantial productions. We refer to the 
estsblishment of Van L. Wolf, at the corner of State and Jackson streets. 
Mr. Wolf keeps a fine stock of carriages constanth r on hand ; buggies, Jenny 
Linds, Germantowns, phaetons and carts can always be purchased at moder- 
ate cost. 



84 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




CAREY & BROTHER. 

These well-known plumbers started business April 3, 1878, this in a very 
small way, in the basement under Rush's store. Their business increased so 
rapidly, that in 1881, they were obliged to seek larger quarters, and the re- 
sult was the erection of their present large establishment at the corner of 

State and Monroe streets, a cut of which is shown in this sketch. They 
carry great lines of heating and cook stoves of every good make, and as well 
heaters, bath tubs and sanitary ware. They make a specialty of large con- 
tracts, and this year have full charge of all the plumbing at Williamson's 
School, where buildings are being added and great changes made. George 
W. Carey, the junior of the firm, is the superintendent of the Media Water 
Works, and his administration is noted for its care and skill. Both brothers 
are practical plumbers, well acquainted with hydraulics and every branch of 
the plumbing business. They do much work in steam, hot water, and hot 
air heating, and in gas fitting and roofing. Their business carries them to 
all parts of Delaware County, and they keep teams for that purpose. We 
could, if there were space, point to many public and other buildings where 
they have had contracts, and all of them satisfactory to all concerned. Their 
store is large and well supplied with tinware and everything usual to the 
culinary, sanitary and plumbing lines. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



35 




C. FRANK WILLIAMSON. 



Charles R. Williamson was practically one of the founders ot Media. 
Among the earliest comers his activity and intelligence led him into a prom- 
inent part in the management of the affairs of the Borough as Burgess, Coun- 
cilman, etc. In 1S79 he retired from the shoe business and bought the lum- 
ber yard at the Media Station. At this time, C. Frank, the present owner, 
was general utility boy. Next the father transferred to both of his sons, 
William E. and C. Frank. Four years ago the latter purchased the entire 
plant, his brother going to Rosement. 

While enjoying a fine business at all times, it has proven beyond precedent 

under its present administration. There is no larger business of the kind on 

the line of the Baltimore Central Division. Last year an average of a car a 

day was consumed. 

Mr. Williamson handles all kinds of building materials, coal, hay, feed, 
flour, cements, etc. He advertises all of these in fine display advertisements 
in the American, which are widely read for their originality, and he was the 
first to introduce cuts of his own drawing or after his own ideas. He has 
acquired a high business reputation through several innovations, and was 
the first to introduce the bag system of delivering coal-far quicker and cleaner 
than the old way. 

Mr. Williamson is Chairman of the Industrial Committee of Media's Semi- 
centennial, and by his enterprise and example contributed much to the suc- 
cess of the industrial part of the parade, his own float and team forty feet 
long and attractive in every way. 



86 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

WALTER S. WESTCOTT, 

is a young man of rare business ability. In 1898, he opened a small tea 
and coffee store on Orange street, and prospered so well during his first 
year in business, that he concluded to start in the cash grocery and 
meat business, so on April I, 1899, he moved to the Holl building, on 
State street, and announced the change to the public. 

His trade immediately became quite extensive, and the stock offered 
to consumers is equal in variety and extent to many of the houses in 
large cities. He buys direct from first hands and is thereby enabled to 
more than hold his own with any other establishment of the kind. 

He makes a point to keep the best of everything, and every article he 
sells can be depended on as pure and fresh. If goods at any time are 
not satisfactory, Mr. W. will always endeavor to make them so. He 
believes in careful buying, small profits, and employing only polite and 
competent clerks. Anything that can be purchased in a grocery store 
or meat market can be found here. It is the headquarters for pulverized 
and other fine grades of coffee and the "Boss" instantaneous coffee pot. 
He carries one of the largest assortments of cakes and crackers to be 
found in the town. Mr. Westcott takes orders, delivers promptly, and 
also calls for orders. 



J. D. PIERSON, 

the well-known liveryman, entered into partnership with Joseph C. Seal, and 
started his present business on Washington street, near Orange, in 1892. 
Under Mr. Pierson's constant attention, and the care shown in the selection of 
his horses and vehicles, the business grew so rapidly that in 1896 a large ad- 
dition had to be built, and among other improvements a fine brick structure 
with accommodations for forty horses, was the result. Mr. Pierson pur- 
chased Mr. Seal's interest, and has since devoted his own capital 
to the business. His cabs and carriages are equal to an}- to be found in 
the best city liveries, and his horses are all well selected, not only for ap- 
pearance, but safety. His hack service is also very fine. We know of no 
town anywhere with so good a hack service, as that of Media, and Mr. Pier- 
son's business tact and taste did much to set the pace in the best direction. 
The Pierson stables are also well known as occasional headquarters for the 
sale of horses, for the stables are roomy enough to accommodate many per- 
manent and transient boarders. Everything is neat, roomy and clean about 
the Pierson stables, the harness well kept, the carriages thoroughly washed, 
the lap robes and blankets just suited to the weather. It is the study of little 
things and of orderly ways which make a business pleasant and successfull 
and Mr. Pierson practices this to perfection. Many causes combined con. 
tribute to his success. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 87 

JOHN KIRSCHNEK. 

This well known jeweler came to Media from Malvern, Chester county 

in March, 1 890. He commenced business here in a small way, but now 

has a fine establishment, and carries a very large and greatly varied 

stock of gcods, consisting of all approved kinds of clocks, watches, table 

and mantel ornaments, with jewelry in charming styles and shapes. 
One of the secrets of his success is the low profits he asks from cus- 
tomers The prices at his store are as low as can be found anywhere 
with honest de ding. He makes a specialty of repairing, and has skilled 
clock and watch makers in constant employment. His store is in the 
heart of the business part of the town, No. HO State street, and is open 
all business hours. Many call in to see and shop, and the proprietor is 
ever attentive and pleasant. 

Mr. Kirschnek had a handsome float in the parade, a rare piece of en- 
terprise on the part of a jeweler. One of the features of the float was 
the way in which fully five thousand campaign rings were distributed to 
the visiting crowds. They weie, oi course, accepted with pleasure. 



CHARLES ZEHNDER. 

This well-known custom tailor has long been located on South Or 
ange street, next to the corner of Washington, and is of few who have 
succeeded in his line. For a series of years ready-made clothing seemed 
to be the order of the day, and the regular tailor had much to compete 
with, but merit wins in every race, however long, and the merit of Mr. 
Zehnder has been realized from the first and grows as the years advance. 
We have seen dress suits made by him from very fine material at $45, 
equal to the best £6o suit to be had on Chestnut street, Philadelphia. 
This fact applies to all of his suits. He knows just how to select the 
best goods at whatever price, and makes as fine a fitting and as durable 
a suit as can be found anywhere. Many of the gentlemen of Media and 
vicinity patronize him and continue to do it year in and year out, for 
they are thoroughly satisfied with rt suits. In spring he will clean and 
put away your winter suits, keeping them fiee from moths, and will at 
all times do this with any clothing, and at trifling cost. No man is bet- 
ter established or more reliable in every business way, and he merits his 
large custom. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




EMIL HOLL. 

The leading jewelry house of Media, is that of Ernil Holl, at the corner of 
State and Orange street. The success of this house during the time it has 
been in existence furnishes an illustration of what may be done by energy, 
industry and intelligent business management. Mr. Holl commenced busi- 
ness in Media, in the year 1877, on Orange street ; but the business increas- 
ed to such an extent that he was obliged to build his present handsome build- 
ing, and in the year 1888, removed thereto. His store has two large plate 
glass show windows for the display of goods, which are at all times filled with 
the same. The stock embraces all kinds of jewelry, watches, clocks, silver- 
ware, etc., is large, well selected and elegantly displayed. The appearance 
presented is quite fine, the building and store being a credit to any Borough. 
Skilled jewelers are constantly employed under the direction of Mr. Holl, who 
is himself an expert. Mr. Holl is noted in Media as one of its most public 
spirited citizens, taking an active part in municipal affairs. He is the chair- 
man of the entertainment committee at the semi-centennial, and as such has had 
to work hard to ascertain the wants and to provide the supplies for the many 
organizations participating. The supplies would alone disturb the quiet of 
any committee, but the one headed by Mr. Holl early resolved to buy every- 
thing possible in Media, so as to return to its merchants at least somewhat of 
their very generous subscriptions. The principle is a good one and is in line 
with the proper home spirit. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



8 9 




WINFIELD S. WORRALL. 

Winfield S. Worrall, although but fifty-one years old, has lived in Media a 
half century. Thirty-five years ago he learned the trade of carpentering 
under his father, Wesley G. Worrall. Twenty-three years back he branched 
out for himself as a contractor and builder, since which time he has erected 
many of the most substantial buildings in the town. Mr. Worrall erected 
residences for Hon. John M. Broomall, Henry C. Howard, Thomas Elkington, 
MissPennell, Miss Eastman, George Wharton, Dr. Pierce, now occupied by 
Frank Downing, George Wharton, Carey Brother's, the Media Ledger build- 
ing and man}- others. 

Mr. Worrall is always ready to give estimates promptly, and guarantees 
satistactory work. The illustration accompanying this sketch is a cottage 
erected by Mr. Worrall for the late Miss Eastman. 



90 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

JOHN J. ROWLAND. 

Among the most reliable and extensive grocery stores and meat markets of 
Media, is that of John J. Rowland, situated on the northwest corner of Front 
and Jackson streets. Though started but a short time, August ist, 1899, 
Mr. Rowland has already gained a reputation equal to any for-the excellence 
of his stock, the affability of himself and clerks, promptness in delivery of 
goods, and close personal attention to business. 

The grocery and fresh vegetable departments are neatly arranged and in 
full view of customers. Everything seasonable is to be found here — in 
Christmas times the finest poultry, in Easter times the freshest eggs, in the 
days when hot and long drawn out, the finest melons and fruits. The 
Rowland store is right in line with the best, in strict attention to every de- 
tail and to prompt delivery, while the books are well kept and the prices 
placed with a view to the quickest possible sales. 

The grocery and market business of Media, is now run at the highest ten- 
sion, and only hustling houses and firms can succeed. The customers have 
learned all the bustling ways of the city, and with our river, miles 5 away, and 
Jersey still farther, the}' want early vegetables the earliest day they are heard 
of. John J, Rowland keeps in close touch with all sources of supply, whether 
at Chester, the wharves of Philadelphia, or distant Norfolk, He is not yet a 
year old at the business, but he caught on quickly, and with youth and great 
energy applied himself so quickly that he now ranks among the first, and de- 
servedly so. It is a pleasure to enter his store and to look at his shaded side- 
walk, lined with things which tempt the palate and make the housewife 
doubly thankful that she lives in God's country. 



J. E. ENGLISH. 

It seems to be a common instinct of our nature to pay a fitting reverence 
to the places where the dead are deposited. This ieeling has descended 
through all the ages, and any desecration of a burial ground is punished with 
great severity. The same feeling causes us to beautify the graves of our 
friends. To perpetuate the memory of the dead is our privilege and duty. 
This we can do most effectually by erecting a monument of imperishable mar- 
ble or granite over their graves. We owe it alike to the dead and living to 
erect something proportionate to our means, to point out the graves to future 
generations and preserve the spot from desecration. 

If you care to visit any of our nearby cemeteries, you will be impressed by 
the fact that a great number of the finest monuments and tombstones were 
erected by J. E. English, whose works are on Washington and Vernon Sts. Mr. 
English's skill in producing work to meet the requirements of those who de- 
sire to embellish the graves of their departed ones is well known. 

In addition to cemetery work, Mr. English furnishes cut stone and marble 

for all kinds of building work. He has been in his present business in Media 
since 1882. By close attention and courteous treatment of customers he has 
naturally been eminently successful in his line. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 91 

MRS. F. W COOK 

is the proprietress of the well-known and long established confectionery and 
bakery at the comer of State and Olive streets. The building- devoted to the 
business is one of the finest in the town, and was built by Mr. Cook in 1890, 
four years before his death. Mrs. Cook was, during the life of her husband, 
his most active helpmeet in the business, and has since conducted it with 
great success. Her reputation for supplying weddings, banquets and lunches 
is of the highest, and this is a very material branch of the general business. 
Among the regular lunch and banquet patrons are the Gentleman's Club of 
Media, the Woman's Club, the Masons, etc. The bakery supplies bread on 
extended routes, while at the store and in the ice cream parlors everything in 
the line of confections and fancy foods can be had. Mrs. Cook makes a spe- 
cialty of fine cakes and fancy creams. The history of the Cook building, if 
fully published, would well show what the courage and enterprise of a business 
woman can accomplish. 

This business house dates the anniversary of its start the same as Media's 
celebration day, for it was first opened May 19th, 1SS7. From small begin- 
nings it has grown to as fine an establishment as can be found in any of the 

great cities. 

^-« — ■*♦>- &-^— 



MEDIA STEAM LAUNDRY. 

Among the most important operations in Media at the present time is 
that conducted on South Orange street by J. Smith & Son. We allude, of 
course, to the Media Steam Laundry. Many improvements have been made 
within the past few years in the machinery which is used in this line of busi- 
ness, and the work now done is executed in the most expeditious manner. 
The work turned out by this establishment is first-class in every particular. 
No acids are used, consequently wash goods can be put through this method 
repeatedly without showing any appreciable wear. The}- employ only the 
best help. Goods are collected and delivered to customers promptly, and are 
taken to and from the establishment in a handsome closed wagon which is 
absolutely dust-proof. The Media Steam Laundry make a specialty of doing 

up lace curtains and delicate wash goods of all descriptions. Their prices are 
consistently low and customers are courteously treated at all times. The busi- 
ness is not limited to Media and its immediate surroundings, but is being 
rapidly extended to many sections of the count}-, this the result of satisfactory 
work and prompt deliveries. 



92 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




BALL & RHODES. 

The Grain and Coal yards occupied by Ball & Rhodes, are situated on the 
line of the Central Division of the P., W. & B. R. R., at Brooke and Painter 
streets. This is the most extensive establishment of the kind in Media. 
Their yard contains the largest steam storage grain elevator in Delaware Co., 
capacity 20,000 bushels ; grinding mill, ample railroad sidings and shedding, 
which give them every advantage for carrying a large stock, enabling them to 
fill almost any order on sight. The coal department of the business is under 
the firm's direct supervison, and they employ only experienced hands, who 
are interested in sustaining their reputation for careful preparation and prompt 
delivery. The facilities with which Ball & Rhodes are surrounded, close at- 
tention to the wants of their customers, and fair dealing, have brought them 
a large share of substantial patronage. 

Among the commodities that can be procured at these yards are best Le- 
high coal ; wood— hickory, oak, kindling, sawed to order ; feed— No. 1 oats, 
whole com, cracked corn, corn meal, ground corn and oats, middlings, 
screenings, fancy winter bran, cerealine, No. 1 timothy hay, loose timothy 
hay, baled ; cut hay, baled ; No. 1 rye battons, tangled rye, baled ; wheat, 
straw, baled ; lime, sand, posts and rails. They have the largest phosphate 
business in the county, and they quickly deliver to all parts of Delaware 
County. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



93 



SAMUEL P. RUSH. 

In our review of the leading private enter- 
prises and old established business houses of 
Media, the list would be far from complete 
were we to omit the mention of the harness 
manufactory of Samuel P. Rush, located on 
State street, west of Orange. This business is 
almost as old as the town itself, and was 
established by Mr. Rush in the year 1851. 
The store now occupied is one of the most at- 
tractive in Media, and is 20 feet front on State 
street by 50 feet deep. The business was 
formerly located on Orange street, but it in- 
creased to such an extent that greater facilities 
were required, and in 187 1, Mr. Rush moved 
to his present commodious quarters. He 
manufactures every style of harness to order, 
and keeps a large stock of his own make on 
hand. Mr. Rush has always made it a point 
to be exactly just in all his dealings, which characteristic has won for him an 
enviable reputation. Many of the fine turnouts for which Media is noted are 
supplied from his establishment. Mr. Rush is an expert at sharpening lawn 
mowers, and has many orders for this work through the proper seasons. 




^•« —••*—»•! 



T. DAWSON COOPER. 

T. Dawson Cooper purchased the old 
established cigar and newspaper business 
of John Innes, since deceased, and has con- 
ducted a successful trade ever since. Mr. 
Cooper gives his customers the best ser- 
vices, rarely giving any of them an oppor- 
tunity to complain because they do not re- 
ceive their daily papers in time to peruse 
at their morning breakfast. He also 
handles the very best lines of tobaccos, 
cigars, snuff, etc , and has a retail patron- 
age in these lines equal to any other deal- 
er in Media. The difficulties of the daily 
news dealers are great in any location, but 
doubly great in a suburban town like 
Media, where all of the people are well in- 
formed as to editions and trains, know 
just when to expect them, and want to 
know the whys and wherefores of each and every failure. It is Mr. 
duty to explain politely, to instruct his assistants to do likewise, 
are all trained to do it very well. 




Cooper's 
and they 



94 



SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




J. HARRIS SLOAN. 

Kvery town has its teamster, and is almost invariably a man of marked 
energy and individuality, and the subject of this business sketch well main- 
tains the reputation of his calling-. He is the son of Malachi Sloan, one of 
Philadelphia's best known contractors, who retired to a farm in Marple town- 
ship, and resided several years in the county. He, too, was noted for his 
enterprise in farming, and owned several properties in the county. 

J. Harris Sloan was one ot the early organizers of the Media Fire Company, 
and has ever since taken an active part in its affairs, being one of its most 
efficient foremen. 

He keeps fine teams, and can conduct a "moving" to the full satisfaction 
of an}' housewife, something quite difficult to do. He can also satisfy the 
musical members of any family, by the care and skill he manifests in hand- 
ling and moving pianos, and all articles of fine furniture. He will accept 
orders for any kind of team work, and in this line has few successful com- 
petitors. 

Mr. Sloan is in charge of one brand of the sanitary welfare of Media and 
vicinity, as indicated by the cut, illustrating this part of his business. The 
work is well done, absolutely without offense, and the modern methods adopt- 
ed give to this locality all of the advantages peculiar to the best city life. 

Mr. Sloan is prompt and courteous in all of his dealings, and has many 

friends in all walks of life. He is widely known, and takes as much pride 

and care in all the lines of his business as it is possible for any one to do. 
This, after all, is the true pride, the manly pride, the best pride, since it leads 
not only to self-respect, but to sure success in life. It is the kind of pride 
which led to Franklin's success in after life. He was a philosopher in his 
earliest youth, blacked boots, acted as printer's devil, was not ashamed to 
save time by munching his loaf of bread on the street, and in this last ex- 
hibition, won for himself a wife, who did much to promote the success of his 
career. Franklin was right and Harry Sloan is not very far wrong. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 95 

CHARLES H. PEDRICK, 

so well known as the "Village Blacksmith," has long been a familiar charac- 
ter to M^dia— familiar through his fondness and skill in music, his patriotism, 
and his great love for the Grand Army, of which he is a member. Post Brad- 
bury has no more active spirit. He became a blacksmith by apprenticing 
himself to John McMullin March ist, 1863, serving four years. In 1S68 he 
worked for Nelson Pugh, then in 1869 for William McMullin, He started in 
business for himself in the spring of 1869, at Coopertown, remaining theie a 
year, then removed to the Eagle Hotel, and in 1S71 removed to Media and 
bought out Nelson Pugh's shop. He built a new shop, the present location 
at the corner of State and Jackson streets in 1S74, and additions thereto in 
1880 and 18S4. He organized the Media Band in 1861, and started memorial 
services at Media Cemetery in 1S72 — independent services by the Medes. 
There had been previous ceremonies by Post Bradbury details, the Post then 
being at Rockdale. Mr Pedrick's first attempt at a separate service had only 
the response of the Media Band, Samuel Dutton and his little dog ; now it is 
the red letter day of the year Mr. Pedrick is still doing a flourishing busi- 
ness at the old stand, and what he doesn't know about horses and their anat- 
omy isn't in the books. He is noted all the county over for his skill in shoe- 
ing horses, and the number almost constantly at his large shops demonstrates 
his great popularity in this branch of a business which extends to every kind 
of carriage and wagon repair Indeed, we have known his skill in the line 
of repairs to extend even to the finest furniture, and now when any household 
article becomes broken it is a household phrase to say, "Send it to Pedrick's 
blacksmith shop." 



THE MEDIA CARRIAGE WORKS. 

This company was incorporated in 1895, and is conducted by the following 

persons: — W. W. Johnson, president; „ H. J. Hippie, secretary and E. L 

Cunningham, vice president and superintendent. The business, when first 

started, was carried on in a limited way, ten men only being employed. But 

the rare business tact and ability displayed by the gentlemen in charge, 
coupled with the addition of machinery from time to time, by which they 
obtained increased facilities for the production of very superior work, gave 
them such telling advantages, that they are now enabled to employ thirty 
men, in order to meet the demands for their rapidly growing trade. 

The site of the works at State and Radnor streets, is occupied by a four- 
story building, 1 10 feet front by 140 feet deep. The first floor is utilized as 
a blacksmith and machine shop, the motive power being supplied by an Otto 
gas engine ; the second floor contains offices and show rooms ; the third floo 
is the trimming and painting department and the fourth is used entirely for 
painting and finishing. Light carriages of all description are the principal 
stock in trade. They also deal in harness of the best makes. 



9 6 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 





; 






(H! 








■1 
I 


5 IP 


j. V"* 





THE RORER GROCERY 



In 1876 T. Edwin Rorer came to Media with enough of capital and credit 

combined to start a cash grocery on Orange street, where the steam laundry 

is now located. He was a man of wonderful energy, and his business grew 

so rapidly that in 1885 he built the fine store at the corner of Washington 

and Oronge streets, now conducted by his widow and son Thomas C. on behalf 

of the estate. Both the widow and son are well trained to the business, and 

they have fully maintained the reputation of the store and kept it up-to-date 

in every particular, It has double store rooms, both superbly lighted, one 

for bulky grains and flour and produce, the other for all of the smaller articles 

in the grocery line, These seem to be countless in number and variety, and 

yet they are so systematically arranged on fine shelves that any article can be 

found at a moment's notice, and all are really under the eye of the buyer' 

The whole effect is pleasing, and the half dozen employes are kept as bus}' as 

well can be at all hours of the day and part of the night. The stand is all that 

could be desired, and so is the conduct of the business. Nearly everything 

is quickly turned and yet every want seems to be full}' anticipated, It is in 

many respects a model mercantile house, If through an}- chance you want 
something that is not on hand, it will be gotten for you on the shortest pos- 
sible notice, The help employed is abundant, well trained, active, and noted 
for courtesy to customers, Thomas Rorer shows all of the quickness and en- 
ergy of his father, who was the founder of this fine business, and there is 
every prospect of its continued success 1 

One feature of the Rorer business house is the promptness with which 
everything new is received, no matter from what point of the country it may 
have come. If it is early shad they come from the St Johns River in Florida; if 
early potatoes, they come from the Bermudas, and a little later from Norfolk 
and during regular seasons they buy from all of our neighboring farmers and 
truckers. The system of buying is first class, and the freshness of green sup- 
plies is universally commended by their many customers. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 97 

WALTER T. HOWELL. 

This well known dealer in pianos, organs, sewing machines, and all 
musical instruments, began business in Media at 116 West State street 
in 1885, coming from near Mount Holly, Burlington County, New Jer- 
sey. He first started on sewing machines, and to pianos and organs 
gradually added all musical instruments, even including a fine line of 
musical toys suited to children. Nine years ago he started a similar and 
branch store at Norristown and still retains a close supervision over 
both. 

Mr. Howell keeps some fine specialties in the organ line, and the 
Lester, Lehr and New England pianos. There is also a variety of phon- 
ographs and graphophones. Bicycles are also a feature of the business. 
These can be had of any make, and many of the best makes are con- 
stantly kept on hand. 

One of the current magazine writers, treating of present prosperity, 
shows how greatly the sales of pianos and organs fell throughout the 
country during the depression of '93-97, and how these sales began to 
increase in '98 and reached the highest mark in '99. Mr. Howell breast- 
ed the waves of the panic and can count a profit during his business in 
Media and Norristown. 



1856. WARDLE ELLIS. 1900. 

1871. 
If people did not get sick they would not enjoy the luxury of getting well, 
and drug stores, on their present basis, would be a thing unknown ; for it is 
in assisting people to win back the health that has been lost that the druggist 
finds his chief mission, and it is a mission of prime importance. In every 
community a good drug store is not a convenience only, but a necessity. It 
must be a good drug store, however, in the hands of a proficient, able and 
good man — otherwise it is a calamity, for not only the health, but often times 
lives are dependent on the skill of the druggist. A thoroughly good drug 
store is that of Wardle Ellis on the northwest corner of Orange and Washing- 
ton streets. Mr. Ellis has lived in Media 44 years and has conducted a drug 
store here since 1871. His store is the oldest pharmacy in the town. 



MRS. A. J. QUINBY & SON. 

One of the strongest evidences of refinement and culture is a manifestation 
of regard for the remains of the departed dead. This is prompted by the 
noblest feelings of our nature, and does honor to the highest traits of human- 
ity, draws out the most sublime evidence of devotion and illustrates the most 
beautiful features of an elevated character. Naturally, people wish to en- 
shrine their departed friends in as fine a casket as their means will afford, and 
have the remains conveyed to the cemetery by experienced undertakers, such 
as Mrs. A. J. Quinby & Son, 206 South Orange street, who have been in bus- 
iness here since May 15, 1875. 



9 8 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




GEORGE B. ALLEN. 

This well-known market and store was opened at Front and Orange 
streets, 4th Month 11th, 1 891, and was removed to the middle market 
4th Month 1st, 1893. From the beginning and continuously rare enter- 
prise has been shown, and the result is a most active business in all lines 
peculiar to a first-class town market. 

With a view to have the freshest vegetables, Mr. Allen, in 1892, rented 
a truck farm and supervised it himself. This farm he has since pur- 
chased, and it furnishes a great variety of the finest vegetables to be 

found anywhere. 

A specialty is made of the best coffees. These are purchased only 
from the largest and most reliable importers in the country, Chase & 
Sanborne, and the result is pure and unadulterated grades so uniform 
that when the customer once buys he keeps on indefinitely. Like care 
in obtaining all supplies has given this store and market the highest 
reputation. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



99 




BURDSALL & ADAMS. 

This firm has been known for twenty-seven years. Starting business in 1873, in a two-and-a- 
half story frame building, opposite the "Old Rose Tree Hotel," in Upper Providence, remoVing 
from there to the Russell property, Media, in 1876, where they remained until about 12 years 
ago, when they occupied their present location, using the entire building erected especially for 
them by Mr. Burdsall. 

From the very inception of their business, it has been the policy of the house to manu- 
factury only goods of merit, believing that permanent success could only be attained in this way, 
and in accordance with this purpose they have uniformly avoided all the cheapening 
mechanical devices for manufacturing, adhering strictly to the highest class of hand workman- 
ship, and use only the very best materials, combining these two essentials, with the closest at- 
tention to the care and manipulation of the tobaccos used, has resulted in the quaility and uni- 
formity which their brands have such a well-earned reputation — as an evidence of the proof of 
this, the firm with "no little degree of pride," points to the fact that the entire output of their 
factory is sold entirely upon orders, they employing no salesmen. 

Mr. Burdsall died eight years ago ; he was never an active partner in the house, but on his 
decease, his estate kept up the investment, with the business under the direction of George E. 
Adams, who from the beginning, has been its active controlling spirit. 

The location of their factory here means much to Media, not only in giving steady em- 
ployment to many men, but it adds to the reputation of the town, for in distant parts it is quite 
as well known through its cigars as in any other way. Its charter and its statesmen are not 
better known than its cigars. 



I DO SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

HAWLEY & SNOWDEN. 

This firm represents the leading business house in Media, indeed there is 
not a hardware store in all of the State which is its superior, either in size or 
the variety and stock constantly carried. Its great building with its four 
stories does not accommodate all of the stock, which is carried in other build- 
ings. The business was first started January i, 1867, when J. W. and S. W. 
Hawley purchased the general store of Wm. V. Black, at the corner of State 
and South avenue. A grocery and hardware store was then conducted by the 
Hawley Brothers until September, 1S77, when Samuel W. Hawley purchased 
the interest of his brother and limited the business to hardware and consistent 
lines. January 1, 1890, S. W, Hawley associated with him Henry C. Snow- 
den, Jr., who had previously been well trained in the business. In 1895 the 
two old buildings were displaced and a new structure erected, 42x75 feet, four 
stories high. It is the largest and finest business house in the town, and as 
stated has no superior in size or beauty in the State. The front is of ornate 
brick and everything is in keeping. 

The line of goods carried embraces everything known to hardware, from a 
plow to a fork, from a nail to a spike. The house also carries a line of spe- 
cialties suited to the wants of the household, such as lawn chairs, hammocks, 
shades, lawn mowers. It readily meets the wants of farmers in a great vari- 
ety of seeds, and of mechanics in every variety of paint. Hawley & Snowden 
take the lead in their line and hold it so well that there is no need of looking 
elsewhere. 



WM. E. DICKESON. 

The well-known drug store of Wm. E. Dickeson, at the northeast cor- 
ner of Washington and Orange streets, is the oldest in the town. He 
purchased from his father, Dr. W. T. W. Dickeson, in 1873, and has 
ever since conducted the business. It was first at State and Orange, 
there conducted by the father, who settled in Media alter faithful service 
in the war for the Union as a full surgeon. The younger Dickeson is a 
graduate in both pharmacy and chemistry, and keeps in close touch with 
every advance in either. In this way he holds a fine prescription trade. 

The Dickeson soda is finer than any known. It is widely celebrated, 
and the summer rush of business for cooling drink is great ; even his hot 
sodas are well patronized in the colder months. 

The lines of drugs and fancy articles are all in keeping with a first- 
class store. The assistants are polite and competent, and as a result a 
good business is enjoyed the year round. 



DANIEL LYNCH. 

Within the past decade the upholstering of furniture has greatly progressed, 
both in point of taste and excellence of the work. Media contains an estab- 
lishment of this kind which is located on State street near Plum, and owned 
b}' Daniel Lynch, which cannot be surpassed in this section. Mr. Lynch also 
makes mattresses, fits and la\-s carpets, in fact everything in the line of his 
trade. His prices are as low as is consistent with good workmanship and he 
is prompt in completing orders. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR IOI 

JAMES HAYNES. 

A few days ago we had the pleasure of visiting the upholstering establish 
ment of James Haynes at 422 Baltimore Ave., Clifton Heights, this county, and 
were greatly surprised at the extent of his plant. Ever}- department is sepa- 
rate, there being a large room devoted entirely to upholstering _a room with 
unequaled facilities for cleaning carpets, by a process which thoroughly cleans 
and imparts freshness and brilliancy to the colors, destroys by hot air (not 
steam) all moths and worms, and does not leave the carpets shrunken and 
limp — a separate department for the making of awnings, the workmanship on 
which is done in the best possible manner, all doubly stitched, the back of 
the wings hemmed, and he never uses smaller than ^ of an inch galvanized 
frames. There is also a complete storage electric plant in the establishment 
which cost $3Soo, and the entire plant is kept brilliant by many lights. 

Last but not least is the hair mattress renovating department. Mr. Haynes 
has just received a patent for renovating mattresses by steam renovator, which 
is endorsed by leading physicians, colleges and institutions of the county and 
by the Board of Health of Philadelphia, The material of which a hair mat- 
tress is made is animal matter and in consequence is continually undergoing 
decay. Each hair becomes shorter year b}' year and the portion lost in each 
falls into dust. This is not conducive to health and the danger of sleeping 
upon decayed animal matter should be avoided by frequent renovations of the 
mattress. Haynes steam method of renovating does awa}- with all animal 

matter, kills all germs, puts new life into the hair and is the only proper way 
to renovate. Mr. Haynes has just added one of the latest improved feather 
renovators to his bedding department for feather beds, pillows, etc. These 
can be renovated at small cost. Mr. Haynes takes pleasure in showing all of 
his renovating processes and storing rooms to all visitors, and these are nu- 
merous. 

The establishment we have endeavored to describe is known as the Clifton 
and Lansdowne Upholstering, Carpet Cleaning and Renovating Works and 
was first started in a small way in a shed at Primos in 1885. In 1SS7 Mr. 
Haynes moved to his present place and four years ago began carpet cleaning. 
January 7 of this year he added the mattress renovating plant which is fully 
described above. Mr. Haynes runs one double and two single wagons from 
one end of the county to the other. 



102 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



JOSEPH C. SEAL, 

one of Media's heaviest contractors, and known throughout the county as one 
of its most enterprising contractors, started his business in Media fourteen 
years ago in a small hemlock shanty at Third and Edgmont streets. Here 
his business soon grew to much larger proportions and three years later he 
removed to a larger frame structure between Third and Fourth streets. He 
remained here until three years ago, when he removed to the present large 
brick structure at the corner of South avenue and Baker street. Among the 
many monuments to his skill as a builder are the Media Club, Hawley & 
Snowden's large hardware store, twelve houses for Fronefield & Rhodes, thir- 
teen for Jesse M. Baker, the residence of W. Roger Fronefield, the hospital, 
gymnasium and dormitory at the Pennsylvania Training School, ten houses 
for Thomas R. Vernon, and the fine mansion of Mrs. Allison at Wallingford, 
at the head of this sketch. He is at this writing adding a building to the 

Colonial, and doing other important work. One of the features of his busi- 
ness is the sale of dynamite, something not generally handled except with 
care. Mr. Seal is widely noted for his enterprise and success, and his busi- 
ness extends far beyond the lines of Media. No undertaking is too great for 
his mechanical skill, a fact well demonstrated by his many successful con- 
tracts. 



SEMI-CENTENNrAL SOUVENIR 



103 




FRIENDS' SELECT SCHOOL. 

The above cut shows the school building owned and occupied by the 
Friends' Select School of Media, some mention of which will be found on page 
22. Since that article was written Louisa Baker, a graduate of Friends' Cen- 
tral School, Philadelphia, and a teacher of six years' experience, has been ap- 
pointed Principal of this school for the year 1900-1901. 



HARRY D. PRATT, 

manufacturer of harness, saddles, bridles, etc., at the corner of State 
and Jackson streets, first commenced business in Media in the two-story 
building at 13 east State street, in the year 1875. His business kept 
constantly enlarging in volume, until now it is one of the leading estab- 
lishments of the kind in the county, and Mr. Pratt was compelled to se- 
cure larger quarters, so in 1885, he erected his present fine store, shop 
and dwelling, and moved there as soon as it was completed. The pres- 
ent establishment is well arranged and commodious, and is filled with a 
large and valuable stock. He deals in everything relating to horses and 
fits out stables complete. He has a splendid local trade, embracing the 
greater part of the county, and many of the fine turnouts, for which this 
section is distinguished, is furnished from this establishment. Mr. Pratt 
is progressive and fully up to the times, and has raised himself by his 
own exertions, and it is to his excellent management that he has reached 
his present success. 



104 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

MRS. JOS. G. CUMMINS. 



One of the oldest business houses in Media is that of Mrs. Joseph G. 
Cummins, at 204 West State street. It was established by her husband 
in [856, in one of the one-storied frame buildings, then located on the 
west side of South avenue, between Front and Jasper streets. The 
present place of business has been occupied continuously for over forty 
years. A full line of stationery is always kept on hand ; also, men's 
furnishing goods in every variety. Mr. Cummins, the founder of the 
business, was born in 1837, in Upper Providence township, within sight 
of what thirteen years later became Media borough, and he resided in 
the district all his life. He died in 1887. Mrs. Cummins came to Media 
in 1852, with her father, Dutton Otley, and their first residence was in 
one of the four oldest houses — the Way property on State street, near 
Jackson. 




OUR TONSORIAL ARTIST. 

The hair cutting and shaving establishment of 
George Schuehardt, on Orange street, was established 
by Gustavus Kugler thirty years ago, and was the only 
place of the kind in the borough for many years. 
In 1888 the shop came into the possession of Frank 
Schuehardt, Mr. Kugler 's brother-in-law, and was 
conducted by him until six years ago, when It was 
transferred to the present proprietor, George Schu- 
ehardt, brother to the deceased. M. Schuehardt en- 
joys such an excellent reputation that he has a much 
larger trade than any similar place in the town. 
Four chairs are constantly used, and customers never 
have long to wait. Mr. S. shows his belief in adver- 
tising by having his walls adorned with the cares of 
many of our business houses. 



MATTHEW ELLIOT & CO. 

The well-known firm of Matthew Elliot & Co., coal dealers, whose office 
a d yard are situated at the railroad bridge, was started in the early sixties. 
In 1873 it was purchased by William & Matthew Elliot and was run under 
that name until the death of William in 1879. Matthew continued the busi- 
ness in a most successful way until his death, which occurred in 1894. It 
then passed into the hands of his sister, Mrs. Janet Taylor, and has since 
been managed for her by J. Elliot Taylor and H. E. Hay ward. 

The specialty of this firm is coal, and its special coal is Jeddo, for which 
they have the exclusive agency for this section. 

They also do a large business in foreign and domestic cements, lime, sand, 
land and calcined plasters, phosphates, hay, straw, feed, etc. It may be in- 
teresting to know that the building they use for an office was one of the old- 
est stations on the P. W. &. B. R. R., being at Wallingford. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR IC5 

MEDIA'S FIRST PLUMBING AND TINWARE 
ESTABLISHMENT. 

In 1850 Ralph Buckley, for years afterwards one of the most prominent 
and enterprising business men of the town, started a tinware and plumbino- 
shop in a small frame building between Haldeman's store and the creamery. 
The site of the present fine establishment at the corner of State and Olive 
streets was then a cornfield. The Buckley family first resided in a house now 
occupied by Mr. Dunsmoor. 

After the death of Ralph Buckley in October, 1895, his niece, Miss Eliza- 
beth A. Buckley, took charge of the business and still conducts the store with 
the well-known enterprise of the family. The store is now devoted to tin- 
ware and housefurnishing goods in great variety. 



W. G. HOUGH, 

the popular grocer, has been in business on State street, Media, for twelve 
years. He makes a specialty of teas and coffee. He roasts his own coffee, 
which enables him to furnish a strictly fresh and dry roasted coffee, which 
very materially enhances its value, rendering a flavor, aroma, and strength 
which makes the blood tingle through the veins of the user, making the old 
renew their youth and the young overflow with vitality. He sells a fresh 
line of staple and fancy groceries of a high grade. As he buys and sells for 
cash he can sell at Philadelphia prices, and thus his customers receive the 
benefit of cash dealing. W. G. Hough's grocery store is 100 West State 
street. You should find out his prices before buying elsewhere. 



LEIPER & LEWIS. 

This firm still conducts the celebrated Leiperville granite quarries. They 
have been operated for over 100 years, b}' the present firm 30 years, and from 
these quarries the first railroad in the world was operated. It connected them 
with the river and was run by horse power. The quarries furnish dimension, 
foundation, curb, building and dressed stone, broken range and double face 
stone a specialty — all shipped by rail or water. If you want to see the stone, 
look at the new building of the First National Bank of Media. Address 
Chester P. O., or Builders' Exchange, Phila,, Tuesdays and Fridays at 1 p. m. 



McMULLEN & CO. 

Although comparatively of recent origin, the firm of McMullen Co., of 
State street, already stands prominently forth in the front rank of the cash 
grocery houses of Media, and the business done by them compares favorably 
with that of any establishment in the same line. The members of the firm 
are thoroughly familiar with every point and detail of he business, and every- 
thing is done by them in an honorable and business-like manner. By their 
energy and strict attention to business, they have built up a reputation that 
reflects credit, not only upon themselves as a firm, but also upon the business 
they represent. 



I06 SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




BOYER & CO. 

This firm conducts the one and the only department store in Media — 
and yet it is not a department store in the sense of seeking to monopo- 
lize. It seeks to accommodate wants which are consistent with each 
other and the large and varied stock always" carried enables it to do this. 

A purchaser can come from the country and get everything desired at 
one visit, and he will find by comparison with any city visit that he can 

do better in Media as to price, and often as to quality. 

There is a large and general assortment of dry goods, embracing 
everything known to this line, whether dress goods, or table linens, blan- 
kets or comfortables. The line of ladies' furnishing goods is undivided 
in extent within Delaware County, and the same is true as to gent's fur- 
nishing goods. Hats and caps are in abundant supply to suit all sea- 
sons and all tastes. 

One of the two stores, both on State street, numbered 9 and II, 
though there is little use for the numbers, is devoted to footwear. Here 
shoes of all kinds, for all ages and sexes, are kept in great variety. 
They are sold at remarkably low prices. Boyer & Co. have become 
noted for their enterprise. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



I07 




MEDIA ICE PLANT. 

For years Media drew her ice supply from what was known as Palmer's 

dam, and later from Broomall's lake. There were frequent crop failures. 

This feature has been entirely eliminated, as Media now has an ice plant fitted 
up with the latest improved machinery for making ice, as shown in photo. It 
runs night and day and present capacity 15 tons per day of the clearest imag- 
inable ice congealed from water pumped from an artesian well 325 feet deep 
through solid rock, which is first converted to steam, then filtered and re- 
boiled before freezing. Maurice C. Michener is the proprietor. The plant was 
first started April 1, 1896, and began business with everybody in Media and 
vicinity needing ice as its customers, The system of delivery is unexcelled, 
four teams being employed to serve the output . 



IOS SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

H. L. BATTIN. 

One of the most enterprising establishments in Media is the market 
formerly owned by Charles B. Jobson, but now in the possession of H. 
L. Battin, at the corner of Orange and Pearl streets. 

It is one of the oldest and most conspicious stands in the town, and 
has been famous for years for its excellent home-killed meats. 

Although Mr. Battin has occupied the premises but a short time, 
the business of his house is very extensive, compelling him to employ a 
large force 01 men to insure prompt service to his patrons. His business 
is not confined to the sale of meats, however, as he always has a large 
stock of regular and green groceries and fresh vegetables at prices con- 
sistently low. 

The prompt methods of doing business adopted by Mr. Battin, and 
exacted from all of his em ployees, have been favorably remarked upon 
from his first entrance to the town, over a year ago, and in this way he 
quickly secured and retained the old and large patronage of the Jobsons, 
and has since added to it more than could possibly have been expected. 
He shows t'ne same spirit of enterprise in every department, in outside 
and inside dealings and is one of the most liberal advertisers in the 
American. More marked success has rarely been achieved by any man 
within our knowledge. 

Mr. Battin is one who believe that home produce is the best, and 
therefore buys extensively from our surrounding larmers. Home pro- 
duce is his watchword, as it is with many of our readers. Indeed, this is 
so true that many consumers are willing to pay a higher price in order 
to get it. This they are not compelled to do it they deal with Mr. 
Battin. Why do people prefer home produce ? Because they know 
that it is fresh. Fresh, because it is delivered to the store on the day it 
is laid, if it's an egg ; pulled if it's corn ; dug if it's potatoes ; cut if its 
asparagus ; churned if it's butter, or chopped and picked if it's a chicken. 

Mr. Battin gives his personal attention to buying, which is a guaran- 
tee in itself that the best only is procured. 

It is not necessary to go deeply into the subjects of meats, as the rep- 
utation of the house for such products is sufficient. His fresh-killed beef 
is rarely equaled. 

Mr. Battin is up-to-date in every way. He secures the earliest lines 
of vegetables, and has them shipped to him from all points ; but, as al- 
ready stated, he welcomes the home-grown crops, the home truckers and 
the home farmers. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



I09 




The Delaware County Trust, Safe 

Deposit and Title Insurance Co., 

Market Square, Chester, Pa. 

Capital subscribed, $500,000 ; amount paid in, $250,000; surplus', $125.00^. James A 
G. Campbell, President; Joseph Messick, First Vice President ; John Caldwell Hmkson, Sec- 
ond Vice President, in charge of Trusts and Titles ; John Doak Go ft", Treasurer ; lolmF. 
Challenger, Secretary ; Oliver B. Dickinson, Solicitor. Directors: Wm. E. Trainer, John B. 
Hinkson, James A. G. Campbell, Joseph Messick, C. Sumner Esrey, Wm. B. Broomall, I. 
Engle Cochran, Jr., Wm. Carson, Garnett Pendleton, George McCall, John Caldwell Hinkson. 
Media Depository at office of J. T. Reynolds, Esq. 



no 



SKMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 




WILLIAM C. RIGBY. 

Respect for the dead is observed by all nations of the earth, and although 
the ceremonies adopted differ widely, they are calculated to pay some fitting- 
tribute to the memory of departed life. Many theories have been advanced 
in reference to the mode of burial that should be established, but we have no 
doubt that the consignment of bodies to the earth, which is the most preval- 
ent custom of the present time, is the most natural and appropriate. In con- 
sidering this subject we have in mind one of the leading undertakers in Dela- 
ware County, William C. Rigby, whose establishment is located on State 
street. Mr. Rigby was born in Media, during which time he has resided at 
the same location, 40 years. He succeeded to the business of his father, 

George H. Rigby, twenty years ago. Through skill and practical ability, and 
careful attention to business, and his personal exertions to execute contracts, 
he has acquired not only an extensive business, but a very high reputation. 
Mr. Rigby takes great pride in his funeral facilities, if that phrase is not too 
harsh in the start upon a journey which has no return. His hearses suit the 
old and young, and his horses as well. He has a pair of white horses which 
are noted in other respects. They have been loaned to the Media Fire & 
Hook & Ladder Company No. I, on every occasion, when the Company has 
visited other towns. They hauled the hose carriage and so added to the 
general beauty of the outfit, that the prizes were easily won. It is this sort 
of pride and public spirit which makes Mr. Rigby very popular with men. 
He has been a very useful member of the Town Council. 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 



III 




HARRY P. ENGLE. 



Six years ago, Harry P. Engle, the subject of this sketch, started in a small wr.y in the baking 
business at Moylan. In November, 1898, an opportunity presented, whereby he was enabled 
to rent the oldest baking establishment in the borough, formerly that of Christian Schur, at the 
corner of State and Orange streets, the business centre of Media. 

Coupled with light home-made bread, delicate cakes and delicious confectionery, Mr. 
Engle's name is familiar to every inhabitant in Media and the surrounding district. The manu- 
facture of fancy cakes is one of Mr. Engle's specialties, and his reputation in this line has been 
so firmly established as scarcely to require a passing notice. Suffice it to say, that he bakes 
every variety known, which in quality are unapproachable. Mr. Engle is sure to become a 
popular caterer, as his efficiency in all the requirements of ball and select party business is 
well known. 

The bread supplied by Mr. Engle has a derservedly splendid reputation. Many of the 
stores in the borough and many in the county handle this bread, because it is a quick selling 
article. In connection with the store is a well-furnished ice cream parlor, where every flavor 
known to the trade can be purchased by the plate. Mr. Engle does not use extracts in flavor- 
ing ice cream, as he is not one to "bamboozle" the public for the sake of making a few extra 
pennies. 

It will be soon time for strawberry festivals,, and there is no dealer in town who can give 
better satisfaction in this time. Goods can always be supplied on short notice. 



I 12 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL SOUVENIR 

SAMUEL DUTTON. 



The Dutton grocery is entirely conducted by Mrs. Samuel Dutton, 
who is quite efficient in every way. All ot the finer groceries are kept 
and the wants of many customers well attended to. The store adjoins 
the American office on State street, a central location and one well 
adapted to the business One of the specialities of the establishment is 
the finest and freshest grades of crackers, but all lines are fully maintained. 
Mr. Dutton is one of the oldest citizens of Media. His father was a 
centenarian, and his friends predict a very long life to him. He was 
formerly a very popular postmaster at Media, and before that second in 
a race for Assemblyman. 

WILLIAM L. BALDWIN 

is a young man who opened a barber shop on Orange street, near State, a few 
years ago, and has met with marked success. His genial manner has won 
for him a vast number of friends, all of whom patronize his establishment. 
Mr. Baldwin requires his employes to keep their tools in first-class condition, 
is careful to employ men with a light hand, and will not tolerate any but 
first-class barbers. There is no better place in Media for good tonsorial work. 




MAJOR & SUTER, 

plumbers, gas fitters, etc., have been in business 
but a short time, but have demonstrated their 
ability so well that they have already secured a 
large proportion of the trade in this locality. 
These young men make a specialty of hydraulic 
work and guarantee the best results. They are 
also agents for the Diamond Windmill Com- 
pany, and the Temple Pump Company of Chi- 
cago. Their shop is located in the Buckley 
Block on State street. 



FINE PRINTING. 

This work, with its many half-tone cuts made from original photographs 
and with its fine type and printing, has all been done at the American office. 
It is a practical demonstration of what a great country printing office can do, 
and it shows that no printing, of whatever nature, need go out of Delaware 
County. Book work, pamphlets, etc., can be illustrated in any way at the 
American office, and it can take first-class photographs and make plates of 
them for business houses at as low rates as in the city. 



PENN SYLVAN I A 
RAILROAD 

AlURail Line 

TO 

ATLANTIC CITY 

VIA 

Broad Street Station 

AND THE 

Delaware River Bridge Route 

ROCK BALLASTED 

DOUBLE STEEL TRACK 

One of the finest stretches of railroad 
in America. 



J. B. HUTCHINSON, J. R. WOOD, 

General Manager. General Passenger Agent. 



PRESS OF 

©hos. U. <§oopei^ § Sons, 

MEDIA, PENNA. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



014 365 279 8 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



014 365 279 8 % 



Hollinger 

pH 8 J 

Mill Run F03-2193 



